There is plenty to like about this side, though, not least a strong spine featuring Napoli’s outstanding centre-back
Kalidou Kouliably, Everton’s all-action midfielder Idrissa Gueye, and speedy forwards Keita Balde Diao and Sadio Mane.
A lack of creativity in central areas could be their undoing, but Senegal look to be well balanced and should fancy their
chances of going further than any other African participant.
Poland’s inclusion among the top seeds always made it likely that their group would contain none of the major heavyweights or pre-tournament favourites.
The presence of Robert Lewandowski up top means Adam Nawalka’s men should not struggle for goals, while Napoli playmaker Piotr Zielinski is another player worth watching.
Poland were only beaten on penalties by eventual champions Portugal in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, although the fact they conceded 14 goals in 10 qualifiers shows they can be shaky at the back.
With the other four African countries losing their respective first games, the hope of Africa now lies on Senegal but has the Terranga Lions the wherewithal to edge past Poland? They did it in 2002 and equally do it now!
