Senegal Make History as First African Team to Defeat England

Senegal etched their name into footballing history on Tuesday night, becoming the first African nation to defeat England’s senior men’s national team with a resounding 3–1 victory at the City Ground in Nottingham.

The result, secured through goals by Ismaïla Sarr, Habib Diarra and Cheikh Sabaly, marks a defining moment for African football, ending England’s 21-match unbeaten record against African sides — a record that had previously read 15 wins and six draws.

England, who took an early lead through captain Harry Kane, were eventually outclassed in all departments by a confident and cohesive Senegalese side led by head coach Pape Thiaw.

“It’s fantastic. We are not used to making history — we made it when we won the Africa Cup of Nations, and we made it tonight,” said captain Kalidou Koulibaly, referencing Senegal’s 2022 Afcon title. “We want to continue writing the story of Senegal.”

A Tactical Masterclass from Thiaw’s Lions of Teranga

Despite falling behind early, Senegal never lost their composure. Edouard Mendy’s initial fumble that led to Kane’s goal was quickly redeemed as the Lions of Teranga settled into a rhythm that England struggled to match.

Sarr’s equaliser just before half-time capitalised on a lapse in England’s defensive concentration, with Kyle Walker caught flat-footed. Diarra then put Senegal ahead after slicing through England’s backline and firing past Dean Henderson. Sabaly sealed the result deep into stoppage time after a turnover in midfield, leaving home fans stunned and vocal in their disapproval.

The result also hands Thomas Tuchel his first loss as England manager, and raises serious questions about the Three Lions’ form and identity less than a year before the FIFA World Cup in the United States.

“We knew we could do something in this game,” Koulibaly told the BBC. “It was a tough game, but we showed our personality and that we can play at this level.”

A Triumph for African Football

Senegal’s victory resonates far beyond the scoreline. It represents a milestone for African football’s global standing and reflects the continent’s growing tactical sophistication and talent depth.

Four members of Senegal’s starting XI currently ply their trade in the Premier League, while Mendy and Koulibaly have both previously represented Chelsea. Their performance in Nottingham was not only technical but deeply strategic — showcasing balance, precision, and resilience.

“This is not just a win, it is a statement,” said a Senegalese journalist in the post-match media room. “It shows that African football can match, and even outplay, Europe’s finest.”

England’s Crisis Deepens

For England, the defeat is yet another worrying sign in a string of uninspiring performances. Having laboured to a narrow 1–0 win over Andorra just days earlier, Tuchel’s side now faces growing scrutiny from fans and media alike.

Despite fielding a rotated squad, England’s tactical disorganisation was glaring. Their inability to respond to Senegal’s counters, poor game management, and reliance on individual moments rather than coherent play has reignited concerns that date back to the final days of Gareth Southgate’s tenure.

England’s Jude Bellingham, hailed as a future leader, let frustration get the better of him after a disallowed goal, kicking water bottles as VAR confirmed handball by Levi Colwill.

“Senegal embarrassed England in the areas that matter,” noted a British journalist. “They played with understanding, with structure, and with belief.”

Continental Context and Looking Ahead

Senegal’s landmark win comes amid a growing conversation about the evolving status of African football. With the African Nations Championship expanding, more players from the continent gaining experience in elite leagues, and a deepening pool of talent, victories like this are not just symbolic — they are structural.

Coach Pape Thiaw, who took over the national side in December 2023, now boasts two wins and two draws from four matches — including this historic result. His side has not lost since January, when they exited the Afcon on penalties to Ivory Coast.

As Senegal continue to build towards future global competitions, their display at the City Ground will stand as a proud chapter in African football’s journey — one that combines skill, heart, and tactical maturity.