Senegal will face England on Sunday. “We want to go as far as possible and write our history,” said captain Kalidou Koulibaly before the most important international game for some time. At the 2002 World Cup, the “Lions of Teranga” stormed into the quarterfinals – as the last African country to date. The end came in Osaka against Turkey only thanks to a golden goal by Ilhan Mansiz. The heroes of yore are also playing a key role in the current success story.
First and foremost is coach Aliou Cisse, who was captain in 2002. He has been in charge of the West Africans for seven years now – with success. After participating in the 2018 World Cup, he celebrated his greatest success this year by winning the Africa Cup. Goalie coach Tony Sylva was in the box 20 years ago, he is the good soul of the team and everyone loves him. Lamine Diatta was a key player in central defense at the 2002 World Cup. Today, as a manager, he takes care of the smooth running of the national team.
Gakpo as the new “Oranje” star
Even more so than the younger Jamal Musiala and Gavi, the 23-year-old Gakpo is the shooting star of the World Cup so far. The Netherlands scored five goals in the group stage, three of which were scored by the Eindhoven player, who can dribble. “If you score three goals in three games, you’re important,” declared goalkeeper Andries Noppert. Gakpo’s qualities are not new for veteran Marten de Roon. “No, he’s playing a bit more attacking now than before, but we know his qualities so it’s no surprise for us,” he said.
Luckily for him, Gakpo had to be forced a little by team boss Louis van Gaal. “He always played on the left side. He didn’t want to play number ten, but he has to with me. Now he thinks I’m a great coach,” said the Bonds coach, who emphasized: “Cody has everything it takes to become a star.”
A number of top international clubs who are keen to sign Gakpo, including Manchester United and Liverpool, are of the same opinion. Its price could rise further as the World Cup progresses. In the knockout phase, however, tougher tasks await the Dutch than the group has given up to now. “Now comes the really important phase of the tournament,” emphasized van Gaal. He has already watched the round of 16 opponents USA on Saturday – and is impressed by the US boys. “They are fantastic,” said the 71-year-old. “Very smart and good on the ball.”
Painful end for Ecuador
The World Cup ended sadly for Ecuador. The South American country gambled away their chance of progressing with a 2-1 loss to Senegal. “It’s very painful right now,” said national coach Gustavo Alfaro. But he predicted a rosy future for his team: “It’s still a young team. I’m sure they’ll get a second chance.” It’s still completely open whether Qatar national coach Felix Sanchez will remain in his position. “The good thing about the Qatar national team is that we have a long-term plan that doesn’t depend on me,” said the Spaniard.
