U20 World Cup – Joseph Koto: “We Are Here to Get Results”

Senegal Make History with U-20 World Cup Quarter-Final Berth

Senegal’s Under-20 team has made a historic leap into the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, defeating Ukraine in a dramatic penalty shootout on Wednesday after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Participating in the tournament for the first time, Joseph Koto’s men showcased grit and resilience, with goalkeeper Ibrahima Sy emerging as the hero of the evening. The Olympique de Marseille shot-stopper made three crucial saves during the penalty shootout, ensuring Senegal’s passage to the final eight.

Senegal had trailed in the second half after Ukraine’s Artem Biesiedin found the net, but Sidy Sarr equalised in the 83rd minute to keep his team’s hopes alive. With no further goals in extra time, the match was settled from the spot — where Sy’s heroics sealed a famous win.

“It was a very important victory for all Senegalese,” said head coach Joseph Koto after the match, speaking to Galsenfoot. “Thank you to the people who were at the stadium this evening for their warm support. We have seriously prepared for this tournament. We did not come here to be extras. We are here to achieve results.”

Koto underlined that the team is not done yet, and urged his players to stay focused with the next match looming.

“At this stage of the competition, we will no longer make calculations. We will take things match by match. Since we are still in the race, we have the opportunity to go further,” he added. “After the match, I told my team — we have not yet reached our objective. This competition ends with the final. That is our objective.”

Senegal will now face the winner of the Austria vs. Uzbekistan match in the quarter-finals. With confidence soaring and momentum on their side, the Lionceaux de la Teranga are proving they are not in New Zealand to merely participate, but to make history.