Qatar 2022: Koulibaly powers Senegal to last 16 after 2-1 victory over Ecuador

Kalidou Koulibaly's 70th-minute strike has propelled Senegal to the knockout stages of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The African Champions defeated Ecuador 2-1 at the Khalifa International Stadium to finish as runners-up in Group A behind the Netherlands who beat hosts Qatar 2-0 in the other group game.

The goal was the Chelsea defender's first and perhaps the most important for his country in 67 caps.

Ismaila Sar gave Alou Cisse's side the lead from the spot on the stroke of halftime before Moises Caicedo equalized for the South Americans in the 68th minute.

The Taranga Lions suffered some nervy moments after the Ecuador leveller, but it was short-lived as Koulibaly came to the rescue after just three minutes.

Senegal has become the first African side to qualify for the last 16, and they are likely to face England in the next round.

This is the first in 20 years the Taranga Lions have qualified for the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup.

WDN