World Cup 2022: Kalidou Koulibaly says Senegal must turn to their youngsters
Kalidou Koulibaly talks about Senegal's young players, but also shows great determination for what lies ahead
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Senegal must bounce back. The African champions take on Qatar this Friday (13:00 GMT) in the second round of fixtures at the World Cup. It is already a crucial game for the Lions of Teranga, who must win to keep their tournament hopes alive after their opening defeat to the Netherlands (0-2). And for Kalidou Koulibaly, everyone will need to contribute, the young players in particular.
"Our young players will have to show what they can do in the next two matches. They have to be at their best so they can deliver in a big game we will then have against Qatar," Kalidou Koulibaly told the press. The remark could prompt Aliou Cissé to give chances to youngsters such as Pape Matar Sarr, Pape Gueye and Illiman Ndiaye, among others. The Sheffield player in particular is being widely called for by Senegalese fans on social media.
Hurt, but not sunk
The Lions captain also discussed the defeat to the Netherlands. But Kalidou Koulibaly does not want to dwell on the setback. The 31-year-old defender insists his team's determination is intact. "I think we were solid in defence. We showed some good things and the 2-0 scoreline did not reflect the game. But that's how it is at the top level of football (…). We are still determined because we know there is still something we can achieve at this World Cup and we still believe in our chances (…). Now we have two finals to play. We will give everything against Qatar so that we can play a decisive match against Ecuador," said the former Napoli player in closing. It remains to be seen whether the African champions can pick up their first win against the host nation.
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