Senegal make history as first African team to beat England

Senegal roared to a historic victory over England at the City Ground, becoming the first African nation to defeat the Three Lions in a thrilling 3-1 win. 

The result handed new England boss Thomas Tuchel his first defeat since taking charge, leaving home fans furious as boos rang out at full-time.

Early promise fades for England

England started brightly, with captain Harry Kane tapping home in the seventh minute after Anthony Gordon’s effort was parried.

But the Lions de la Téranga fought back, exposing defensive frailties in a performance that will raise serious questions for Tuchel.

Just before halftime, Ismaila Sarr pounced on Kyle Walker’s sluggish clearance to level the score, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.

Senegal seize control

The West African side grew in confidence, and Habib Diarra put them ahead in the 62nd minute, exploiting space left by Morgan Gibbs-White before slotting coolly through Dean Henderson’s legs.

England thought they had equalised late on through Jude Bellingham, but VAR ruled it out for a handball by Levi Colwill—adding to the frustration of the home crowd.

Any lingering hope was crushed in stoppage time when Noni Madueke’s wayward free kick sparked a lightning Senegal counterattack.

Youssouf Sabaly finished with composure, sealing a famous victory and leaving England’s fans stunned.

A night of firsts—and questions for Tuchel

Senegal handed Africa its first-ever win over England in 22 attempts, marking a watershed moment for African football.

For the Three Lions, however, the performance—and the reaction from supporters—will be a major concern.

Tuchel, who had only scraped a 1-0 win over Andorra days earlier, now faces mounting pressure to turn things around before England’s next fixtures.

Meanwhile, Senegal’s players celebrated a landmark triumph—one that will be remembered for years to come.