Rudi Garcia Blames Defensive Tactics for Senegal’s Shock World Cup Exit

French coach Rudi Garcia has slammed Senegal’s decision to defend a two-goal lead in their Round of 32 clash against Belgium. He called the retreat into a defensive shell “a serious mistake” that invited relentless pressure. After taking a 2-0 advantage through goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr, the Teranga Lions retreated. Belgium capitalised with quick strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans, then won a contentious penalty in the final minute to complete a remarkable 3-2 comeback. Garcia argued that maintaining offensive intent would have kept Belgium under constant pressure. He warned that elite European sides will exploit negative tactics late in knockout matches. This dramatic collapse ended Senegal’s World Cup campaign and underlined the coach’s view that sitting back too early can be fatal.

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