After an impressive show by Senegal in the earlier minutes of the game, they lost concentration and Netherlands punished them in a 2-0 late victory in the FIFA World Cup at Al Thumama Stadium on Monday.
Cody Gakpo nodded home before substitute Davy Klaassen sealed the important victory for the 2010 World Cup runners-up.
The tight game looked like it was destined for a goalless draw not until Frenkie de Jong swung in a left-wing clinical cross that was headed in the back of the net by Gakpo past Edouard Mendy.
Mendy was once again exposed in added time when he punched the ball into play before Klaassen glanced on a rebound and tapped it home.
Senegal had over 15 attempts at goal but managed to get only four on target though none was converted.
The closest Senegal came was through Boulaye Dia and Papa Guye but goalkeeper Andries Noppert was on duty to palm away the stinging challenges.
Louis Van Gaal’s side struggled to take command of the game against the African Giants but their quality and patience made a great return to award them maximum points.
The result will give Netherlands rhythm and a required start into the competition leaving Senegal in a hard place two must-wins against Qatar and Ecuador respectively.
Netherlands level with Ecuador at the top of Group A with three points and two goals while Senegal and the tournament hosts sit bottom with no point.
They return in action on Friday November 25 as Qatar take on Senegal and Netherlands lock horns with Ecuador.
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