Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye broke his silence after Senegal's World Cup exit with an emotional statement on social media, acknowledging the Lions of Teranga had “not met expectations” but vowing the country would overcome the disappointment.
Senegal's World Cup campaign ends in heartbreak
Senegal were knocked out in the round of 32 by Belgium after finishing third in a group containing France, Norway and Iraq. The manner of defeat proved the biggest source of frustration, as Senegal squandered a two-goal lead in the final four minutes of regulation before losing to a penalty in stoppage time of extra time.
Goals in each half from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr rewarded Senegal's dominance against a Belgian side that struggled to contain them. With one foot in the last 16 and a tie against the USA in sight, Senegal collapsed dramatically.
Ndiaye's World Cup contributions
Ndiaye and his former Everton teammate Idrissa Gueye started the match. Ndiaye had come off the bench to score in the 5-0 win over Iraq, while Gueye was key throughout the tournament. Gueye's Everton contract expired last week, though discussions over his future may continue.
Ndiaye's Instagram statement
Ndiaye wrote on Instagram: "We are aware that we have not met expectations. This shirt, its story, we had to do better. Thank you for your support throughout the competition. We'll come back stronger for the next periods, because for us nothing equals the pride of wearing the Senegalese jersey."
Everton pre-season plans
Everton return to pre-season training on Friday (July 10). Ndiaye and Gueye will be given extra time off after their World Cup stint and will not be present. Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford remains in the tournament with England, set to face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday.
