Senegal holds England at halftime

In Nottingham, the Lions of Teranga are doing more than just matching England—they're making them sweat. While Thomas Tuchel’s men struck early, Senegal responded swiftly and fully deserved their equalizer.

And yet, it all started poorly. A costly turnover by Lamine Camara, a poorly parried shot from Mendy, and Harry Kane (7th minute) wasted no time slotting home into an empty net. It was the kind of goal that could have floored any team—but not Pape Thiaw’s squad.

The Senegalese didn’t let their heads drop. Their pressing—smart and well-coordinated—frequently unsettled England’s attempts to play out from the back. The reward came through the relentless Jackson, who chased down a lost cause and delivered a pinpoint cross for Ismaïla Sarr (40’), left unmarked by Walker. A deserved and logical equalizer. All square at 1-1 going into the break.

Across the opening 45 minutes, it was Senegal who showed the greater character. Combative and inventive in attack, the Lions once again prove they can go toe-to-toe with the giants of world football. Now, they just need to back it up in the second half.

Aliou Toundé |

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