Turkey and Senegal prepare with war of words

History is already assured in today's quarter-final meeting between Senegal and Turkey here. So is bad blood.

Whoever wins, a semi-final against Brazil will be a historic first for two sides in hitherto uncharted World Cup territory. Turkey have already gone well beyond their previous-best first-round elimination 48 years ago while Senegal, making their first appearance in the competition, are seeking to become the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

To top it off, today's quarter-final is also turning into a mud-slinging contest, with the Senegalese accusing Turkey of belittling them, and the Turks criticising the Africans for dirty tactics.

As if a game pitting the African Player of the Year, El Hadji Diouf against the Turkish striker Hakan Sukur did not have enough spice, the coaches added some more.

The Turkish coach, Senol Gunes, warned his players about foul play. "[Senegal] tend to show their elbows," he said. "If you look at their matches, you will see several players had to leave the pitch injured or even bleeding. The interesting thing is that no referee saw them. Such acts must be punished with a red card."

The Senegal coach, Bruno Metsu, said Senol was just trying to influence the referee. "He is afraid of our play in the air. He is just preparing for the game."

The Blackburn Rovers defender Hakan Unsal was yesterday still suffering from pain in his left knee, which was operated on two months ago.

Senegal will be able to count on Aliou Cissé, Ferdinand Coly and Papa Malick Diop, who have had enough time to recover from injuries. Combined with the availability of their key midfielder Salif Diao and the winger Khalilou Fadiga, both of whom were suspended for the second-round win over Sweden, Metsu will have a fully fit squad.

Turkey are convinced the Senegal match will just be a stepping stone to greater achievements. Senol said. "If it's in our destiny, we will reach the final in our first World Cup after a 48-year break."

Senegal so far have mixed attacking imagination with a solid defence to baffle all predictions – starting with the defeat of the defending champions, France, in the tournament's opening game.

Turkey have been solid all through. After leading at half-time, Ttey were unfortunate to lose 2-1 to Brazil, who were awarded a late disputed penalty, but mentally strong enough to withstand a fervent home crowd to beat Japan. What they lack in flamboyance, they make up for in efficiency.

Metsu has been worried that fatigue might dull Senegal's speed. He cancelled training on Thursday to let his players recover. "They have a smile back on their face now," he said.