Garcia walks back African teams comment after Belgium–Senegal

Rudi Garcia has walked back a comment about African teams after Belgium beat Senegal in the World Cup round of 32 on Saturday. "It was certainly not my intention to criticize African teams at the World Cup," the Belgian coach said (1). The Lions of Teranga pushed Belgium harder than expected, and Romelu Lukaku had already flagged Senegal's intensity and duel strength as the toughest his side would face. Garcia's original remark drew sharp reactions and he moved to clarify it after the final whistle (1).