Koulibaly strikes winner as Senegal beat Ecuador 2-1 in Group A; qualify for Round of 16

By
Jehan Mucadum
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Senegal 2-1 Ecuador: Senegal sealed qualification to the Round of 16 as they beat Ecuador 2-1 in their final group A match on Tuesday night.

Sarr broke the deadlock in the first half from the spot before Caicedo equalized in the 2nd half for Ecuador. But Koulibaly made the difference for the AFCON champions as his strike sealed their progress.

FIRST HALF

The African champions pushed for a goal from the first whistle as Gueye and Ndiaye both had chances but their efforts went wide.

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It was in the 44th minute, when Sarr slotted home from the penalty spot after he was fouled by Hincapie in the box. Sarr dispatched it coolly in the bottom corner to give Senegal a 1-0 lead.

SECOND HALF

In the second half, Ecuador looked to get back into the contest but Estrada’s effort was sent wide.

The CONMEBOL side felt the pressure and pushed more men up front which worked in their favour when Caicedo equalized in the 68th minute.

The Brighton player slotted home from a corner when he was left unmarked at far post.

However, their lead lasted only 2 minutes as Koulibaly rescued his nation with a wonderful volley from Torres’ shoulder through a corner.

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The Senegalese captain was calm and composed when he struck home to send Senegal 2-1 ahead.

Ecuador had efforts on goal but they were not testing enough as Senegal managed to hold on.

With that win, Senegal sealed a 2nd place finish in Group A and face the winner of Group B.


       

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