El Hadji Malick Diouf, recently called up to the Senegal national team, celebrated his selection in style by scoring a brilliant goal for Slavia Prague in their 2-0 victory over FK Pardubice in the Czech Championship on Sunday.
The 19-year-old left-back, who was named in Senegal’s senior squad for the first time by coach Aliou Cissé on Friday, wasted no time in showcasing his talent.
In the match against Pardubice, Diouf delivered a standout performance, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising young defenders in European football.
Diouf’s moment of brilliance came after a missed volley by teammate Tomáš Chorý.
Seizing the opportunity, the young Senegalese defender deftly retrieved the ball and outmaneuvered the Pardubice defense with a clever feint, leaving his opponents floundering.
He then unleashed a powerful right-footed shot that rocketed past goalkeeper Jan Stejskal, securing his third goal of the season.
This goal not only contributed to Slavia Prague’s victory but also served as a statement of Diouf’s rising potential.
His performance on Sunday underlined why he has been included in the Senegalese national team despite stiff competition for the left-back position, particularly from Ismail Jakobs.
Diouf’s current form is making it increasingly difficult for coach Aliou Cissé to overlook him for a starting spot in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers.
Senegal, the reigning African champions, will face Burkina Faso on Friday, September 6, and Burundi on Monday, September 9, in the opening matches of their qualifying campaign.
Diouf’s recent displays could very well earn him his first cap in these crucial fixtures.
As Diouf continues to develop and impress at the club level, his inclusion in the national team at such a young age is a testament to his hard work and determination.
The former Mawade-Wade Academy star has quickly adapted to the demands of top-tier football in Europe, and his goal against Pardubice is just the latest example of his growing influence on the pitch.
With three goals already this season, Diouf is proving to be more than just a defensive asset.
His ability to contribute offensively makes him a versatile player, one who could play a significant role in Senegal’s future endeavors as they aim to defend their AFCON title and qualify for the 2025 tournament.
As anticipation builds for Senegal’s upcoming matches, all eyes will be on El Hadji Malick Diouf to see if he can translate his club success to the international stage.
His performance on Sunday suggests that he is more than ready for the challenge.
⏲️ KONEC | Před reprezentační pauzou za tři body ✅
Domácí výhru proti Pardubicím zařídili El Hadji Malick Diouf a Tomáš Chorý. 🤩 #slapce
Za dva týdny všichni do Ostravy! 🚉 pic.twitter.com/Vj5vM1rMH2
— SK Slavia Praha (@slaviaofficial) September 1, 2024
