The clash of champions between Qatar and Senegal will come off this afternoon at the Al Thumama stadium.
Both teams would not be pleased with their past results and standing in group A as they failed to secure any point in their first match respectively.
Qatar fell to an Enner Valencia brace against Ecuador. The host nation might face an early exit from the World Cup if they are not able to beat Senegal.
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Senegal rues the absence of star man Sadio Mane but will be itching to grab their first points against Qatar.
Kickoff – 14:00 G.M.T
Venue – Al Thumama stadium.
Team news
Qatar
The only injury concern for the host nation is one from pre-tournament as midfielder Abdullah Al-Ahrak misses out while recovering from his ACL tear.
Qatar is the major underdog in this match against the Senegalese team that can defend, hold the ball, and attack using line-breaking through balls.
Senegal
The Lions of Teranga will be sweating the fitness of midfielder Chiekhou Kouyate who came off injured in the opener against the Netherlands. Abou Diallo was also struggling for fitness in the opening match but reportedly returned to training after suffering cramps in the match.
Qatar predicted lineup
Barsham; Pedro Miguel, Khoukhi, Salman, A Hassan, Ahmed; Al Haydos, Boudiaf, Hatem; Ali, Afif
Senegal predicted lineup
Barsham; Pedro Miguel, Khoukhi, Salman, A Hassan, Ahmed; Al Haydos, Boudiaf, Hatem; Ali, Afif
Odds / predictions
Qatar put on a dissapointing display against the perceived third-best side in the group last weekend, so may struggle even more against a side with bigger stars.
Senegal have lacked a scoring touch of late, though, and will hope that dominating possession and creating enough chances will give them the edge. Sengal to win 1 – 2.