El Hadji Malick Diouf

Analysis: Diouf put three dangerous crosses into the box, including taking three corners as Senegal lost 3-1 to France. Senegal defended fantastically in the first half and limited France's attacking threat for the full half. The full-back won one of his two tackles and made four clearances as he helped his side out defensively. From his crosses, he created one chance and played the full 90 minutes.

Jun 10, 2026

Dynamic option on left flank

Diouf has been named in Senegal's World Cup squad and is expected to start at left-back under coach Pape Thiaw, arriving at the tournament after an impressive season with West Ham United in the Premier League.

Analysis: Diouf contributed five assists alongside 44 tackles and 33 interceptions this season, delivering a well-rounded performance level that underlines his value as both an attacking and defensive presence on the left flank. His ability to get forward and deliver dangerous crosses into the box while maintaining his defensive responsibilities makes him one of the more complete left-backs at the tournament, and his Premier League experience gives him the physical and tactical preparation needed to compete against the best right wingers in world football. For Senegal, Diouf provides the left-back position with a dynamic and energetic option whose combination of defensive solidity and attacking output gives the Lions balance and width on that side of the pitch throughout what promises to be a demanding group stage against France, Norway and Iraq.