Senegal near last 16

The match was a very bad-tempered affair

Senegal coach Bruno called his side's 1-1 draw with Denmark "a great victory for Africa" and said they were nearly guaranteed a place in the second round.

Diao off as Senegal draw

"The players showed all their talents," Metsu said.

"They really gave pleasure to African football. With a bit more time we could have won the match."

Despite having Salif Diao sent off for a career-threatening tackle on Rene Henricksen, Senegal continued to take the game to Denmark right up until the final whistle after having much the better of the second half.

That was after Diao had cancelled out Denmark's opener - scored from the spot by Jon Dahl Tomasson - on 52 minutes with of the best goals of the tournament.

Clockwatch: All the action as it happened

Metsu said that the result had virtually put his side through provided they did not lose to Uruguay in their last game.

"As far as the next match is concerned, we practically know that if we take a point we are qualified for the last 16," he stated.

"That is a great achievement for our first appearance in the World Cup finals."

Denmark v Senegal photos