England vs Senegal (1).webp
England suffered a shock 3-1 defeat to Senegal in an international friendly at the City Ground, marking their first-ever loss to African opposition. Despite Harry Kane putting the hosts ahead early, a sluggish performance allowed Senegal to take control, adding pressure on manager Thomas Tuchel after a lacklustre showing against Andorra.
  • Harry Kane opened the scoring for England in the first half.
  • Ismaila Sarr equalised after Kyle Walker’s error before halftime.
  • Habib Diarra and Youssouf Sabaly scored second-half goals to seal Senegal’s win.
  • VAR ruled out a late Jude Bellingham equaliser for a handball by Levi Colwill.
  • Fans booed England off as Tuchel’s tactics came under scrutiny.
Tuchel’s side looked “frozen,” as he admitted post-match, lacking fluidity and fight. Walker, once dependable, was singled out by pundits like Roy Keane for “lazy” defending, fuelling debate about his future in the squad. Meanwhile, Senegal’s sharp counters exposed England’s frailties, with Edouard Mendy denying key chances from Gibbs-White and Saka. With the World Cup looming, England’s disjointed display suggests more questions than answers.

This result not only dents morale but raises big tactical concerns for Tuchel, who now has limited time to get England clicking.