(Web Desk) – There arose a tricky situation for Senegal when it emerged that the team’s doctor for FIFA World Cup competition is a practising gynaecologist, sparking criticism over the football federation’s medical staffing decisions._x000D_
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The revelation has prompted debate among fans, former players and sports medicine experts, with critics questioning why a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology was selected to oversee the medical needs of an elite men’s football squad instead of a physician with expertise in sports medicine or orthopaedics._x000D_
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The controversy has overshadowed Senegal’s World Cup campaign, with opponents accusing the country’s football authorities of poor planning and inadequate support for the national team._x000D_
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Officials have defended the appointment, noting that the doctor is a qualified medical practitioner and has experience working with athletes. They also stressed that he is supported by a broader medical team responsible for players’ fitness, rehabilitation and injury management._x000D_
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The issue has nevertheless triggered widespread discussion on the importance of specialised sports medicine at the highest level of international football, where injury prevention, recovery and performance optimisation play a crucial role._x000D_
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The Senegalese Football Federation has yet to indicate whether it will review its medical appointments following the criticism.
