Netherlands are favourites to top Group A but today face a Senegal side in their opening match who arrive at the World Cup in Qatar full of confidence after a year to remember.
The Lions of Teranga ended their wait for a major international trophy by winning the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, grinding their way through to the final in impressive, if not particularly entertaining, fashion.
While not exactly one of the favourites, Aliou Cisse’s team have the tournament nous to make a run, but they are severely weakened by the absence of Sadio Mane who will miss the tournament with injury.
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The Netherlands have emerged as dark horses in the eyes of many. Having stormed their way into the Nations League finals, a move away from the 4-3-3 system so intertwined with their footballing identity appears to have worked even despite the natural criticism. Simply put, the Oranje look in a much better place than in Euro 2020.
Louis van Gaal took his country to the semi-finals in 2014 and will leave his role in charge after the tournament after revealing he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. What a story it would be should the former Barcelona, Ajax and Manchester United manager go one step further.
Date, kick-off time and venue
The World Cup game is scheduled for a 4pm GMT kick-off time today, Monday, November 21, 2022.
The Al Thumama Stadium in Doha will host.
Where to watch Senegal vs Netherlands
TV channel: The game will be broadcast on ITV1.
Live stream: The ITV Player will offer a live stream.
LIVE coverage: Follow all of the action LIVE with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog.
Senegal vs Netherlands lineups and team news
Senegal XI: E Mendy, Sabaly, Koulibaly, Diallo, N Mendy, Kouyate, Gueye, Cisse, Diatta, Sarr, Dia
Netherlands XI: Noppert, Dumfries, De Ligt, Van Dijk, Ake, Blind, De Jong, Berghuis, Gakpo, Janssen, Bergwijn
Senegal vs Netherlands prediction
Neither side can afford a slip-up with Ecuador cruising past Qatar in the opening match, with Netherlands in particular needing to make a winning start to their campaign.
With Senegal weakened and not a hugely expansive side as it is, Van Gaal’s side should be able to pick up all three points.
Netherlands win, 2-0.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
The two have never played.
Senegal vs Netherlands latest odds
Senegal win: 5/1
Draw: 14/5
Netherlands win: 4/7
