All eyes are on a Group A shootout as the final round of pre-knockout stage World Cup action commences in Qatar this afternoon. A fascinating group is still wide open heading into the last pair of clashes to take place concurrently, with both Ecuador and Senegal still hopeful of making the last 16 along with the Netherlands, who battle the already eliminated hosts.
Ecuador have enjoyed a fine campaign so far and are neck-and-neck with the Dutch at the summit, needing just a point here to qualify. They may still go through if they lose and Qatar stun Louis van Gaal’s side at Al Bayt Stadium. After a loss and a win, meanwhile, Senegal need another victory here to advance but could also progress if they draw and the Netherlands lose, with England likely lying in wait.
Senegal have made three changes for this massive fixture, while Ecuador get a huge boost with talisman and leading scorer Enner Valencia fit to start. Follow a key World Cup clash live below, with expert analysis from Malik Ouzia at Khalifa International Stadium.
Live updates
Watch: Sarr penalty gives Senegal the lead
Half-time
Ecuador 0-1 Senegal
50 mins: Another dangerous Senegal cross falls safe before Sarr is caught in a painful clash with Franco.
He stays down for a moment but the goalscorer is quickly back to his feet.
The half-time whistle then sounds.
49 mins: A comical flashpoint on the stroke of half-time as Valencia goes down theatrically clutching his leg after a coming together with Sabaly, who was almost pushed into the Ecuador captain by Caicedo.
Ecuador want a card, but there’s no chance.
Good refereeing from Clement Turpin.
47 mins: Almost a second for Senegal before the interval but Ndiaye is denied by some solid defending inside the box.
Ecuador could do with the half-time whistle to regroup.
Malik Ouzia at Khalifa International Stadium
That is a top penalty from Ismaila Sarr. Some bottle from a player who has actually missed the last two penalties he’s taken for Watford.
45 mins: Six minutes of added time signalled at the end of the first half.
GOAL! Ecuador 0-1 Senegal | Ismaila Sarr (pen) 44′
44 mins: Absolute class from the Watford man.
The run-up is casual as you like and he slots into the bottom corner with Galindez rooted to the spot.
A massive goal for Senegal before half-time.
43 mins: Sarr dusts himself down to take. Huge moment this before the break!
Penalty to Senegal
42 mins: Hincapie clatters into Sarr and French referee Clement Turpin immediately points to the spot!
Right decision. This won’t be overturned.
