Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr delivered a commanding display for Senegal vs Burundi
Tottenham Hotspur star Pape Matar Sarr delivered a strong performance in Senegal’s 2-0 win over Burundi in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification fixture.
Habib Diallo scored a first-half brace as Senegal beat Burundi and topped their Group L. They have amassed 16 points from six games, winning five and drawing one.
Pape Sarr has been a consistent performer for The Lions of Teranga throughout the Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign. The central midfielder, who arrived at Tottenham from FC Metz in 2021, has gradually risen to prominence under Ange Postecoglou. Due to his running power, work rate, tackling and ball-winning skills, he has become an important player for Postecoglou’s side.
The 22-year-old is also equally important for his nation and his latest display against Burundi further proved that. Senegal dominated possession with 67% as Sarr played as a part of a midfield trio on the left side. The youngster has played dominantly as a free-roaming No.8 at Tottenham under Big Ange during this season, so it bodes well for him when essaying a similar kind of role for the national team.
On Tuesday, Sarr’s contribution was vital, completing 78 touches on the ball with an impressive passing accuracy of 91%. He made one key pass and delivered two accurate long balls. Additionally, the African enforcer won nine duels and blocked two shots, further highlighting his work rate and physicality in the middle of the park.
Defensively, the Tottenham man worked his socks off, making six successful tackles and three interceptions. Sarr’s one successful dribble past his opponents typified his intent to drive Senegal forward during his 87-minute stay on the pitch. (Stats courtesy: SofaScore)
Although the Senegalese has been in and out of the Tottenham team this season, his work rate and commitment remain unquestionable. His tireless performances in the engine room have significantly helped the Lilywhites in critical games this campaign, while at 22 there is still plenty of room for improvement.
Sarr’s latest display for his national team augurs well for Tottenham, particularly after the FA slapped Rodrigo Bentancur with a seven-game domestic ban for his comments on skipper Son Heung-min back in June. With Bentancur set to start serving his lengthy suspension from the weekend’s game away at Manchester City, Sarr could help Big Ange solve the selection dilemma in midfield in the Uruguayan’s absence.
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Having operated in the No.6 role for his former club FC Metz, fans can expect the Senegal international to not shrink if Big Ange decides to hand him a similar role as Spurs hunt for a solution to compensate for Bentancur’s loss.
All in all, Sarr returning to N17 after positive displays for his national team is great news for Big Ange and our fans.