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Football London
Football London
Sport
Kieran Horn

Chelsea's Kalidou Koulibaly puts Senegal into World Cup last 16 and potential clash with England

Chelsea's Kalidou Koulibaly has come up with a hugely significant World Cup goal which has put Senegal into the World Cup last-16. Ismalia Sarr gave Senegal the lead but Moises Caicedo equalised in the second half only for Koulibaly to strike moments later.

Koulibaly, who captains Senegal, reacted sharply to a loose ball from a free kick to fire into the back of the net with a goal that sees Senegal finish as group A runners-up where they could potentially face England in the next round.

Other than his delicious volley in the London derby fixture against Tottenham, Koulibaly has not shown much nous in front of goal when attacking set-pieces, while his defensive performances have perhaps not been at the standard of a defender who has played at the highest level for many years.

READ MORE: Todd Boehly given Cristiano Ronaldo Chelsea transfer boost after Bayern Munich decision

Senegal's progression also sees Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy advance into the last-16 with Koulibaly, which would impact their return dates to Cobham as Graham Potter prepares for the remaining months of the 2022/23 season.

Mendy faced significant criticism for his display at the World Cup which saw two mistakes cost Senegal valuable points against the Netherlands but after beating Qatar and with Koulibaly striking the winning goal against Ecuador, Mendy could yet redeem himself with more chances to show his quality in Qatar.

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