Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo became the first current Seagulls player to score at a World Cup finals this afternoon (Tuesday 29 November).
Caicedo scored on 68 minutes in Ecuador’s match against Senegal at the Khalifa Stadium in Doha.
Two other Brighton players, Pervis Estupinan and Jeremy Sarmiento, were also on the pitch for Ecuador in the match.
But Caicedo’s goal – an equaliser – could not keep Ecuador from crashing out of the tournament after losing 2-1 to the Africa Cup of Nations champions.
Senegal’s triumph, despite missing their injured star striker Sadio Mane, could bring them the reward of a match against England in the first knockout stage of the finals.
The contest for a place in the last 16 came alive with the first goal just before the break when Watford forward Ismaila Sarr put Senegal in front from the spot.
Ecuador’s hopes were revived when Caicedo levelled the scores. But it was heartbreak for the Brighton trio as Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly captained his side to victory, quickly restoring Senegal’s lead with his first international goal.
Yesterday (Monday 28 November), Brighton full back Tariq Lamptey did a good job of containing the South Korea and Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min.
His hard work helped Ghana to a crucial victory 3-2 win, keeping alive his country’s hopes of qualification from the group stage.
Former Albion defender Ben White was out of contention for a place in the England squad this evening, having missed training after feeling unwell.
