- Senegal’s win against Qatar was the first for an African team at Qatar 2022
- Much-fancied African champions feel no extra pressure due to status
- Lions of Teranga are gradually settling into the role as continental standard bearers
With a record of two draws and three defeats from the first set of group games, African teams had precious little to cheer during the first five days of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Only Ghana could find the net, and both their goals came in a 3-2 loss to Portugal. Thankfully for the entire African Zone, a ray of hope appeared on Friday afternoon; fittingly, Senegal lifted the mood. As in 2002, when they kicked off the tournament against France – and again in 2018, against Poland – the Lions of Teranga got the ball rolling with Africa’s opening victory at the finals.
In doing so, Senegal has set an example for their continental rivals, who have appeared timid on occasion and possibly over-anxious. Blessed with undeniable talent, the African teams were waiting for a breakthrough.
Indeed, Senegal’s trailblazing result was celebrated far beyond the nation’s borders on social media. Put that down to a camaraderie among African sides that perhaps does not exist on any other continent. As Senegal’s own Pape Abou Cisse explained after the win against Qatar, “I hope the other African teams will get going and achieve something in this competition.”
As reigning continental champions, Senegal was always expected to lead the way for Africa’s hopefuls at this World Cup. First and foremost, however, they are committed to their own mission. “Of course, people had high expectations of us – that’s obvious,” said defender Youssouf Sabaly. “But our main focus is on ourselves and getting the best result possible in each game.” “We don’t feel any pressure because of our status compared to the other African teams,” added Cisse. “The only pressure comes from ourselves because we have big ambitions in this competition.”
The hopes of a nation are a heavy enough load to bear without Senegal having to carry the dreams of an entire continent. Even so, if they can inspire others along the way, all the better. In the meantime, as they wait to see if their fellow African contenders can follow in their footsteps, Aliou Cisse’s team will savour their Qatar success without getting carried away. For a team bent on reaching the knockout phase, nothing is decided yet.
One picture coming into focus, on the other hand, is Senegal’s gradual emergence as continental leader, having become the first African side to win at least one game at each of their first three World Cups. A fine feat, though not one that carries much significance for the players. “I don’t know if that means anything because we mustn’t forget we started this World Cup with a defeat,” said Sabaly. “It’s completely different from the other two World Cups. Either way, we have to remain focused.” Wise words with a final to come against Ecuador on Tuesday, but that game could take this Senegal team into a whole new dimension. And carry the rest of Africa with them.