World Cup 2022: Six Things Africa Learned At Historic Finals | Soccer/Soccer

Senegal were dealt a massive blow when star striker Sadio Mane - named the world's second-best footballer two months ago - had to withdraw on the eve of the finals through injury.

It handcuffed Aliou Cisse's carefully-laid plans, since the coach clearly had no replacement anywhere near the same level - despite the best efforts of Ismaila Sarr, who scored twice, Bouna Dia and Iliman Ndiaye, who is one to watch.

The final group game win over Ecuador secured a second knockout appearance twenty years after their first goal without Everton's Idrissa Gana Gueye, who was suspended, and fellow midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, injured in the group stage, the Teranga Lions struggled to contain England and crashed out .

"In all countries in Africa, there is a real sports policy in place," said Cisse after the Round of 16 exit. "We have to keep that up if we want to win these tournaments."

Having gone further than ever, the continental confidence collected in Qatar has prompted Morocco's inspirational coach Walid Regragui to say a first African title is less than two decades away.