Defensive Headache for Pape Thiaw as Senegal Lose Central Rock | OneFootball

Lyon defender forced out with knee problem ahead of top-of-the-table World Cup qualifier

Defensive Headache for Pape Thiaw as Senegal Lose Central Rock

The Senegal national team's suffered major setback after defender Moussa Niakhate was ruled out of Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World cup qualifier against DR Congo in Kinshasa.

Knee injury ends Niakhate’s camp

Niakhate 29 started alongside Kalidou Koulibaly in the 2 - 0 victory over Sudan in Diamniadio on Friday. But the Lyon center back was substituted in the 59 minute after hurting his right knee.

The Senegalese Football Federation confirmed in statement that MRI scan showed Niakhate's "not fit to continue the camp" forcing him to withdraw from the squad. The duration of his absence remains unclear.

Defensive reshuffle for Pape Thiaw

Coach Pape Thiaw must now decide between Abdoulaye Seck & Moustapha Mbow to partner Koulibaly in central defense for the heavyweight clash with DR Congo.

Senegal currently sits second in Group B with 15 point, just 1 point behind leaders DR Congo (16). Tuesday’s match in Kinshasa could be decisive in the race for automatic World cup ticket.

Meanwhile Niakhate’s injury adds to growing concerns among european clubs over the international break.

Ligue 1 sides Lyon, Marseille and PSG have all seen key players return with knocks fueling debate over the relentless football calendar.