Late goals from Cody Gakpo and Davy Klassen ensured the Netherlands started their 2022 World Cup campaign on a triumphant note, beating Senagal 2-0 in Group A.
A goalkeeping error in the 84th minute by Senegal goalie Edouard Mendy was fully capitalised upon by Cody Gakpo who headed home to put his side a goal up on the African Champions.
The game appeared to be headed to a scoreless draw until the Chelsea ‘keeper came off of his line to deal with Frenkie de Jong’s cross. But PSV winger Gakpo was first to the ball and he headed home into the empty net to make it 1-0 for the Oranje.
The Dutch were also buoyed by an appearance from Memphis Depay. The Barcelona forward wasn’t expected to feature in Monday’s match due to injury, but was a second-half substitute for Louis van Gaal’s side, playing the final 30 minutes.
His shot in stoppage was stopped by Mendy, but put in the net by Klassen late into stoppage to wrap up the three points.
There was insult to injury for the Lions of Teranga, as well. Nottingham Forest midfielder Cheikhou Kouyaté was stretchered off late in the second half after appearing to pick up a lower-leg injury.
The loss marks the first time that Senegal was defeated in its opening match at a World Cup.
Senegal returns to action on Friday against hosts Qatar. The Oranje play later on Friday when they take on Ecuador, who were 2-0 winners on Sunday over Qatar.
