World Cup (Q): Senegal suffer blow as Niakhate injured ahead of DR Congo clash

The Senegal national team was dealt a huge blow after center-back Moussa Niakhate suffered an injury. The France-based defender has now left the national team camp ahead of the crunch duel against DR Congo in Group B from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying.

The 29-year-old player amassed 59 minutes in a 2-0 win over Sudan in Diamniadio but was replaced by Abdoulaye Seck after sustaining an injury to his right knee. The Senegalese Football Federation, in a statement, disclosed that Niakhate will now miss the crucial second match in Kinshasa on Tuesday. The federation stated that Niakhate is unable to continue training; thus, he has left camp.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw now has two options left for the central defense position to partner veteran defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Seck and Moustapha Mbow are expected to vie for a place in the starting lineup for the DR Congo clash.

Senegal is second in Group B with 15 points, while DR Congo is top with 16 points.

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