DOHA – Kalidou Koulibaly scored the game-winning goal in Senegal‘s thrilling 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Tuesday, advancing them into the World Cup knockout rounds for just the second time in their history.
Senegal needed to win to advance from Group A’s second round, whereas Ecuador would have advanced with a draw, thanks to the Netherlands‘ convincing win over Qatar.
Ismaila Sarr’s penalty gave Senegal the lead late in the first half. However, after keeping Ecuador captain Enner Valencia quiet the entire time, Moises Caicedo of Brighton tied the score in the 67th minute before Koulibaly sent Senegal through and Ecuador home.
Senegal manager Aliou Cisse had stated before the match that his seasoned team “would not overthink” the situation.
The Africans delivered on that promise with a commanding performance throughout the contest to send Ecuador packing.
