Lions Weekend: Between confirmations and successful premieres

He needed a trigger, he got it. For his first start with Watford, Krépin Diatta impressed and contributed to the success against Charlton. But the former Monegasque was not the only Lion to stand out this weekend: from Iliman Ndiaye to Mamour Ndiaye, via Nicolas Jackson, Ibrahim Mbaye and Lamine Sy, the Senegalese put in a string of great performances.

A convincing first start for Krépin Diatta

Krépin Diatta scored points on his first start with Watford. Aligned from the start against Charlton Athletic, Saturday October 17, the Senegalese international participated in the success of the Hornets (2-0), during the 11th day of the Championship. An important victory for a team which remained on a difficult series in the championship. Recruited at the beginning of October after the end of his adventure with AS Monaco, the 27-year-old player quickly found his feet. After a first appearance against Cardiff City where he came on during the game, Diatta this time convinced in the starting lineup. Active in his lane, the versatile Senegalese player notably won five of his seven duels on the ground and completed 88% of his passes in the opposing half. In the 15th minute, he also distinguished himself with a strike from the edge of the area forcing the opposing goalkeeper to intervene. A successful performance for anyone who intends to relaunch his career in England.

Another offering from Iliman Ndiaye for Haaland

Iliman Ndiaye also made an impression this Saturday with Manchester City. Starting against Ipswich Town, the Senegalese international delivered an assist to Erling Haaland during the Citizens’ victory (3-2) in the Premier League. In the 69th minute, the Lion served the Norwegian striker, who scored his second goal of the match and the third for his team. This achievement allowed the Mancuniens to regain a two-point lead before Ipswich reduced the score late from the penalty spot. Present in the offensive animation and available in the combinations, Skiliman played the entire match. In a team that has a string of championship victories, this new offering confirms its ability to contribute to offensive play and to make the difference in important moments.

Nicolas Jackson seductive, Ibrahim Mbaye explosive

Nicolas Jackson also delivered a remarkable performance this weekend with Aston Villa. After his double in the Champions League against Fenerbahçe, the Senegalese striker returned to the championship with the ambition of continuing his momentum. Against Newcastle, he was not decisive, but oh, he was important for the Villans and weighed on the Magpies’ defense. His compatriot, Ibrahim Mbaye, stood out for the impact of his entry into play. In just 18 minutes, the Senegalese winger completed three dribbles, created a chance and won five duels. He was particularly effective in face-to-face situations, displaying his ability to provoke his opponents and create gaps. An encouraging performance for the young Lion, who intends to seize every opportunity to gain importance.

Lamine Sy imperial facing Le Havre

Also present in the defensive and offensive phases, Lamine Sy contributed to AJ Auxerre’s victory against Le Havre (3-1). The Senegalese right-back recovered eight balls, won six duels and made three tackles. Statistics which underline his commitment to individual confrontations and his contribution to recovery. Beyond his defensive interventions, the new Senegalese international also completed two dribbles. In this match won by the Auxerrois, he stood out for his activity in duels and his use of the ball.

First tenure, first clean sheet for Mamour Ndiaye

Mamour Ndiaye (20 years old) experienced an important moment in his career with AS Saint-Étienne. The Senegalese goalkeeper played his first match as a starter against Red Star on Saturday in Ligue 2. On arrival, the Greens won with a score of 1-0. Propelled into the starting lineup due to the unavailability of Gautier Larsonneur, the goalkeeper took this opportunity to make his mark in a competitive context. The only goal of the match was scored by Irvin Cardona in the 14th minute. The Stéphanois then preserved their advantage until the final whistle. For Ndiaye, this first tenure resulted in a clean sheet. A positive result which allows him to build up confidence and show that he can respond when called upon.

Yaya SOW