Nottingham, UK – June 10, 2025
Senegal made history at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground, becoming the first African side ever to beat England in a 22-match history, triumphing 3–1 in a stunning friendly outing . Harry Kane opened the scoring in the 7th minute, but Senegal rallied with composed and assertive play: Ismaïla Sarr leveled in the 40th, Habib Diarra struck through the legs of goalkeeper Dean Henderson in the 62nd, and Cheikh Sabaly sealed the win with a stoppage-time header .
Senegal had nine shots on target compared to England’s four, with Mendy delivering crucial saves . After the final whistle, England’s players were booed off by home fans, who were unimpressed with the team’s lack of cohesion and aggression .
Harry Kane admitted it was not good enough, stressing the need for improved tempo and tenacity ahead of the World Cup . England manager Thomas Tuchel confessed his side felt “frozen” and vulnerable, calling the defeat a learning opportunity . Meanwhile, a controversial handball ruling overturned Jude Bellingham’s equaliser, sparking intense debate among pundits and Kane—who insisted “if you know the rules, it’s not handball” .
