Cohesion, energy, and a clear gameplan Senegal showcased everything England lacked in a sobering 3-1 defeat at the City Ground. England had begun brightly, with Harry Kane scoring inside eight minutes, seemingly brushing aside the disjointed 1-0 win over Andorra days earlier. But that early optimism quickly evaporated as Senegal surged ahead with three emphatic goals, their energy and organization exposing England’s defensive frailties. Despite some questionable VAR decisions most notably the disallowed equalizer from Jude Bellingham Senegal’s win was well-earned and never truly in doubt.
The result marked England’s first ever loss to an African team, a record that had stood precariously since the early 1990s. Yet even that historic footnote paled in comparison to the broader issues on display. Senegal played like a team with a plan and purpose, one in tune with its manager’s vision. Their intensity, tactical cohesion, and hunger to win painted a stark contrast to England’s lethargy and confusion. While the hosts had individual talent in abundance, they lacked the unity and direction needed to compete at this level.
Senegal’s manager praised his players’ commitment and mindset, pointing to their determination from the outset. While he offered polite compliments to England, it was clear who deserved the plaudits. The three goals scored each rapid and decisive reflected a team that had come not just to participate, but to dominate. Even without their star forward Sadio Mané, Senegal’s players, drawn from clubs across Europe’s top leagues, delivered a statement performance.
England, on the other hand, are left with uncomfortable questions. Tiredness at the end of a long season might explain some individual lapses, but Senegal’s players had similarly demanding club campaigns. Their ability to outwork and outthink their more lavishly resourced opponents suggests deeper issues within the England setup. Coaching salaries tell their own story Senegal’s manager reportedly earns a fraction of England’s boss yet it is the African side who looked the better-drilled unit.
Senegal’s unbeaten run now stretches to 22 matches. Having crashed out meekly to England in Qatar 2022, this was a night of vindication and revenge. They now turn their attention to crucial qualifiers, still needing to secure a place at next year’s World Cup. Meanwhile, England are left to reflect on how far they still have to go. For all the talk of potential and individual brilliance, they were undone by a team with less fame, fewer resources, but far more purpose.
