Senegal vs Netherlands Prediction: Louis Van Gaal’s side might wreak havoc on Senegal in their World Cup opening game

On Monday, the Lions of Teranga will kick off their World Cup campaign against world heavyweight Netherlands at the Al Thumama Stadium. African Football lovers worldwide will focus on one of their principal representatives in the tournament, Senegal. Amidst all the excitement, one of the faces of African football wouldn't grace the event. Read on to learn about our well-researched betting tips for your winning.

SENEGAL

FIFA Ranking: 18th

Last five games: WWWWD

The Lions of Teranga head into this tournament for the third time in their history. Senegal's successful quarterfinals in 2002 were their first; however, they failed to qualify in 2010. They made their third appearance in the competition in 2018, where they could not advance past the group phase.

Aliou Cisse's men fought tooth and nail to secure their ticket to Qatar as they saw off a robust Egyptian side on penalties. The African Champions are one of the best in Africa and are unbeaten in their last five competitive games. More recently, Senegal settled for a (1-1) draw against a strong Iranian side as nothing separated them at full time.

A few days ago, Senegal announced Sadio Mane wouldn’t grace the 2022 World Cup. It was a terrible loss, which might affect his side's performance in the competition.

Possible Starting Lineup: Mendy; Youssouf Sabaly, Pape Cisse, Koulibaly, Saliou Ciss; Bouna Sarr, Mendy, Idriss Gueye; Ismailia Sarr, Famara, Boulaye Dia.

Key Player: Ismailia Sarr

NETHERLANDS

FIFA Ranking: 8th

Last five games: WDWWW

The Flying Dutchmen head into this tournament as one of the favourites. Having participated in the World Cup for the eleventh time, the Netherlands are yet to triumph, with their best record being three times runner up. Louis Van Gaal's side failed to show up in the last edition of the World Cup when they finished third in group A qualifying round with nineteen points in ten games.

After their horrific performance in 2018 qualifying round, the Flying Dutchmen parted ways with their coach and acquired the services of former gaffer Louis Van Gaal. The 71 years old, Dutchman got to work and ensured the Netherlands secured their ticket to the World Cup.

Since Van Gaal took over, the Netherlands are yet to taste defeat in their last fifteen games. They have won eleven and shared the spoils four times.

Possible Starting Eleven: Pasver; Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Daley Blind, Frankie De Jong, Teun, Denzel; Gakpo; Depay, Bergwijn.

Key player: Cody Gakpo

Expert Betting Tips

This game would have been hard to predict if Mane had been in the squad; his absence would indeed affect the team’s performance. He’s their highest goal scorer and the best player in Africa. Another thing to consider here is both sides’ defence; Senegal have a decent partnership with Pape Cisse and Koulibaly. At the same time, Netherlands' three men defence might be the best in this tournament. Timber, Van Dijk and Ake are world-class players, and so is Senegal.

Having said that, both teams are not immune to conceding; we still expect goals here but are not certain of how many. The Netherlands pose a significant threat to any team in this tournament, and we can't see Senegal obstructing them. Bet on the Netherlands win for 1.55.

Senegal frontmen are capable of creating scenes, but not sure they can penetrate Netherlands' defence; bet on BTTS no for 1.65.

Louis Van Gaal is an experienced coach; he’s unbeaten in the last fifteen games and has defeated top teams like Belgium, Poland and Wales. They might get a halftime win here for 2.15.

Good luck!