Senegal beat Qatar 3-1, hosts on brink of elimination in World Cup

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Senegal defeated Qatar 3-1 in the FIFA World Cup's Group A match on Friday, leaving the hosts on the brink of elimination in the tournament.

Playing at the Al Thumama Stadium, Senegal broke the deadlock with a close-range finish from Boulaye Dia in the 41st minute.

Senegal doubled the lead when Famara Diedhiou rose to put a firm header back across the goal — assisted by Ismail Jakobs in the 48th minute.

In the 63rd minute, Almoez Ali attempted to score a goal with a close-range kick, but was denied by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

Qatar narrowed the gap to one with 78th minute thumping header from Mohammed Muntari.

But Bamba Dieng doubled the lead again just six minutes later, knocking the ball into the net with his right foot. It was the first victory for an African team in the tournament.

With this defeat, Qatar are on the verge of World Cup exit. The hosts will be eliminated if the Netherlands win or draw against Ecuador in the other Group A match later on Friday.