Senegal destroys England after late Bellingham goal ruled out

Thomas Tuchel suffered his first defeat as England manager after Senegal came from a goal behind to claim an impressive 3-1 victory at the City Ground, extending their unbeaten run to 16 matches (W11, D5) while becoming the first African nation to defeat the Three Lions, after seeing Stephanie Frappart disallow a late equaliser for the hosts.

Having flattered to deceive in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Andorra, Tuchel’s side knew an improved display was needed against Senegal. It was the West African nation, however, who nearly took a shock lead inside five minutes when Nicolas Jackson’s low strike was thwarted by the legs of Dean Henderson.

Grateful for that reprieve, the hosts broke the deadlock just two minutes later, with Harry Kane tapping home from six yards after Anthony Gordon’s initial effort was spilled by Édouard Mendy. 

Determined to find a swift response, Senegal showed plenty of attacking threat as the first half progressed. Ismaïla Sarr came close with a powerful header that was parried around the post by club teammate Henderson, while at the other end, Gordon inexplicably missed the target from close range.

The Lions of Teranga continued to probe with HT looming, and their persistence was duly rewarded in the 40th minute, when Sarr nipped in front of Kyle Walker to clinically convert from Jackson’s cut-back.