Senegal knocked out of W’Cup on fair play, as no African team in last 16

Last-standing African representatives, Senegal have crashed out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in their last group game at the Samara Stadium in Russia on Thursday.

Standing on 4 points after a win and a draw in their previous matches, Senegal could have still qualified over Japan who are also on 4 points, but the Asians have received fewer yellow cards.

It is the first time in history a team has been knocked out of the World Cup on fair play.

As it stands, no African side made it to the knockout stages of the Russia showpiece. Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Nigeria had earlier confirmed their exit.

Read Also: How Moses felt after Eagles crashed out of World Cup

Senegal had the opportunity of going ahead in the 17th minute when Sadio Mane was fouled by Davinson Sánchez in the box.

The referee awarded a penalty but rescinded his decision after watching video replays. Both tams went into the break in stalemate.

But after several missed chances, the Teranga Lions fell behind from a brilliant, powerful header from Barcelona centre-back Yerry Mina as Colombia took the lead on 74 minutes.

The Colombians held on to the lead till the end as they successfully sealed their qualification for the round of 16.

The other Group H game between Poland and Japan eneded 1-0 in favour of already-eliminated Poland.

Colombia topped the group with six points, and will be joined by Japan in the knockout round.

While Colombia will face the runners-up of Group G, Japan will take on the winners of the group.

 

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