France will face Poland followed by England’s match against Senegal – the first time the two countries have met.
The Round of 16 knockout stage at the Qatar 2022 World Cup continues with two more matches scheduled for Sunday, December 4, 2022 – the 15th day of the tournament.
- France vs Poland (Al Thumama Stadium, 6pm/15:00 GMT)
- England vs Senegal (Al Bayt Stadium, 10pm/19:00 GMT)
France vs Poland
World Cup holders France, who have also played and are unbeaten in their last seven games against Poland, are expected to go past the White and Reds into the quarter-finals.
Poland’s strong defense will aim to stop France’s Kylian Mbappe, who is coming off a brace against Denmark. Mbappe is also the only player – apart from Pele – to score seven World Cup goals before turning 24.
France’s 36-year-old Olivier Giroud, chasing his 52nd international goal to overtake compatriot Thierry Henry as France’s all-time top scorer, will also pose a major threat to Poland.
Poland, looking to bounce back from the team’s 2-0 loss to Argentina, will need to rely on the accuracy and pace of captain Robert Lewandowski if they are to perform well against Les Bleus.
England vs Senegal
England have never beaten an African team, but will that change?
In 21 games, including seven World Cups, the Three Lions have lost or drawn every African team they have faced. And they have a chance to win Sunday’s game, too – the first between the two countries.
But, in the 2022 World Cup which is defined by several problems, Senegal, which is competing in the knockout tournament for only the second time in history, should not be underestimated.
Senegal, led by talisman Kalidou Koulibaly, improved after defeat to the Netherlands, advancing to Qatar and Ecuador, despite the absence of the injured Sadio Mane.
Suspended Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gueye will be out of action on Sunday after picking up a second yellow card in his side’s thrilling 2-1 win over Ecuador on November 29.
Senegal coach Aliou Cisse, who is ill, will also miss Sunday’s match.
