The 2022 FIFA World Cup cannot be treated lightly, especially with the inaugural game between the Netherlands and Senegal. Indeed, the opening contest is usually a curtain raiser for all the other soccer showpieces on the ground. The match between the Orange and the Tiranga Lions is one that fans cannot stop anticipating, especially those in Africa. Many have bared their breath in the hope that Senegal and the Netherlands put up a challenge that will go down as a FIFA World Cup classic.
The game is set for November 21, 2022, at the Al Thumama Stadium in Qatar. Initially, the FIFA World Cup 2022 schedule had the host country going up against Ecuador, but FIFA inevitably changed its mind. Senegal against the Netherlands (a European powerhouse) is exactly what the season needs for a thrilling first match.
Both countries are looking forward to the contest with great expectations. Senegal’s Tiranga Lions not only want to win but anticipate going all the way and becoming the first African nation to bag the FIFA World Cup. On the flipside, the Orange team of the Netherlands’ desire to put behind a history of disappointment and pain by winning the FIFA World Cup Championship for the first time.
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Senegal’s Tiranga Lions
Senegal is one of Africa’s champions and one of the strongest teams that will represent the continent at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.The appearance in Qatar will be their third, following earlier participation in South Korea, Japan, and the Russia Cups back in the day. The odds of the Tiranga Lions outperforming in the championship are high, especially now that they have proved their potential by winning the African Cup of Nations continental championship in 2021 in Cameroon.
In terms of FIFA world rankings, Senegal is currently at number 18, which is the highest position it has ever been ranked. The Lions deserve it because they have maintained prolific form in the past few years. Its current squad boasts an array of super footballers, including Sadio Mane, who was crowned the highest-ranked player.
The Orange Team from the Netherlands
Notably, the Netherlands have never won a World Cup despite being regarded as one of the best teams in the world, with an incredible record to say the least. Their reverence puts them on a pedestal such that many football teams wish to face them in a competitive match to counter their skills. Their current ranking stands at number eight, ahead of Germany and Portugal. Their failure to qualify for the last two FIFA World Cup editions urges them to participate this season for the 11th time. The Netherlands’ squad has always been known to be one of the best globally. They have big names like Memphis Depay and Frankie De Jong-Barcelona’s stars.
Face to Face
The Netherlands and Senegal will be playing against each other for the first time at the FIFA World Cup 2022. This tournament is one of the most anticipated ones, particularly for the neutrals. One can hardly tell what to expect because both teams have a great balance of world-class players. Regardless, winning is crucial for the teams as they both desire to rewrite history.