2026 World Cup qualifiers: Iliman Ndiaye inspires as Senegal edge DR Congo in five-goal thriller

Senegal produced a stirring fightback to defeat DR Congo 3-2 in a dramatic 2026 World Cup qualifying encounter, with Iliman Ndiaye leading by example and coach Pape Thiaw’s tactical decisions proving decisive.

The Lions found themselves in deep trouble early on at the Stade des Martyrs, as defensive lapses left them two goals down.

But Ndiaye’s relentless energy and Thiaw’s timely substitutions sparked a turnaround that reignited Senegal’s campaign and thrilled their travelling supporters.

Player Ratings

Edouard Mendy (4/10)
The Al-Ahli goalkeeper endured a difficult evening, conceding twice from three shots on target.

Beaten by a sharp Cédric Bakambu volley and unable to command his area convincingly, he looked short of authority.

Krépin Diatta (6/10)
Trusted at right-back, the Monaco player combined defensive resilience with attacking thrust.

He frequently tested the Congolese defence with accurate crosses and sparked the move that led to Senegal’s first goal.

Abdoulaye Seck (5/10)
Drafted in after Moussa Niakhaté’s withdrawal, the veteran centre-back was one of the steadier figures in a shaky backline.

His physical presence added some assurance late on.

Kalidou Koulibaly (4/10)
The captain had a torrid first half, beaten by Bakambu for the opener and again undone by Meschack Elia for Congo’s second.

He redeemed himself slightly by setting up Nicolas Jackson’s equaliser.

El Hadji Malick Diouf (2/10)
The West Ham defender endured a nightmare, overwhelmed by Elia throughout.

Slow in his recovery runs and erratic in possession, his performance will quickly be forgotten.

Lamine Camara (4/10)
The midfielder struggled to impose himself, guilty of several turnovers and offering little defensive cover.

Substituted just after the hour mark.

Idrissa Gueye (5/10)
The experienced midfielder lacked his usual dynamism.

He grew stronger after the interval, however, playing a key role in the counterattack that led to the winning goal.

Pape Gueye (6.5/10)
One of the bright spots in midfield. He struck Senegal’s first after Ndiaye’s shot rebounded off the post, and his intelligent movement unsettled Congo’s defence.

Iliman Ndiaye (7/10)
Arguably the standout performer. The Everton winger tormented Arthur Masuaku, created Senegal’s first goal, and nearly scored himself.

His leadership and tireless work embodied Senegal’s revival.

Nicolas Jackson (6/10)
Quiet before the break, but crucial when it mattered.

His well-taken equaliser shifted the momentum firmly in Senegal’s favour.

Sadio Mané (3/10)
Lively in the opening stages but ultimately ineffective.

He failed to trouble Congo’s defence and was replaced by Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly, who later provided the decisive assist.

Coach Pape Thiaw (7/10)
Thiaw’s adjustments turned the tide. His substitutions—Pape Matar Sarr and Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly—combined for the winning goal, vindicating his tactical nous.

Senegal’s resilience under pressure secured a vital win, reasserting their authority in the group.

For Thiaw’s side, the victory was a reminder of both their vulnerabilities and their capacity to rally when it matters most.

Qui sont vos Tops et Flops du match❓

🇨🇩 🇸🇳 RDC 2-3 Sénégal #WCQ2026 #wiwsport #Senegal pic.twitter.com/p9LBoARryI

— wiwsport (@wiwsport) September 9, 2025