Kalidou Koulibaly
CB
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Jun 20, 1991 (34)
Right
6'1"
196 lb
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Logs eight minutes in practice game
Koulibaly (quadriceps) played eight minutes as a substitute during Senegal's friendly matchup versus Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
Analysis: Koulibaly has regained health just in time to be an option in the major national-team tournament. The defender dealt with muscular issues since April but could eventually be available from kickoff, challenging Mamadou Sarr for a central role alongside Moussa Niakhate. The former Napoli and Chelsea player is a key presence in Senegal's defense and could help the team to limit opposing attacks, racking up clearances, tackles and interceptions in the process. He may also serve as an aerial threat if he can push forward on attacking set pieces.
Set for World Cup return
Koulibaly (thigh) has returned to full training with the Senegal squad and is feeling well after the thigh injury that kept him sidelined since April 8, with a decision on his involvement in Tuesday's friendly against Saudi Arabia to be made by the coaching staff, according to the player, per SeneNews. "I feel very well. We did things intelligently. We did not want to rush. I feel very well. I have resumed with the group for a few days. We will try to see if I will play against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. It is the coach who will decide."
Analysis: Koulibaly had been absent for exactly two months after sustaining the thigh injury during a training session at Al-Hilal, missing Senegal's recent friendly defeat against the United States. The Senegal captain's return to group training is a major boost for the reigning African champions heading into the World Cup, where they have been drawn in a group alongside France, Norway and Iraq. Senegal open their campaign against France on June 16 at the New York Stadium, with Koulibaly's leadership and defensive quality crucial to their chances of navigating a demanding group stage. Tuesday's friendly against Saudi Arabia will provide an important opportunity to assess whether the captain is ready to be thrown straight into competitive action.
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