Ismaïla Sarr missed a clear penalty against France!

16.06.26 FT World Cup

France

3

:

Senegal

1

The opening 45 minutes of this World Cup showdown between France and Senegal came to a close with the scores still level—but only just. In the dying embers of the half, the African side came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock, only for a moment of wild inaccuracy to let the reigning champions off the hook.

A pinpoint delivery from the flank carved open the French defense, leaving Ismaïla Sarr unmarked and staring at an almost empty net after Mike Maignan had already committed himself. The Crystal Palace wideman had the simplest of tasks—to steer the ball home—but instead, he skewed his effort high into the stands, much to the relief of the French contingent and the disbelief of his own teammates.

That glaring miss has only added fuel to the growing criticism directed at Didier Deschamps' men, who have looked far from convincing so far. Social media has been quick to pile on the European giants, with many pointing out that Senegal have actually appeared sharper, more incisive, and more threatening going forward. For now, though, France remain level—and grateful that Sarr's finishing let them off the hook.

Hazem Mlhem |

Editorar, en

Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

Related teams and leagues

France

Senegal

World Cup