Last update at 26 June, 2026 ⏲️ Reading time: 1 minute
FIFA World Cup 2026 @ 26.06.2026
Senegal and Iraq face off in Toronto on the third and final matchday of Group I. Both teams are in serious danger of being eliminated after losing their first two matches. Senegal were beaten 3–1 by France and 3–2 by Norway, whilst Iraq lost 4–1 to the Norwegians and 3–0 to the French. Both teams suffered at the hands of goal-scoring machines Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland and now find themselves in a desperate situation ahead of this final match, where both sides must win at all costs to stand any chance of qualifying as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Whilst it is true that not much more was expected of Iraq – their very participation in this World Cup being a milestone in itself – more, much more, was expected of Senegal. ‘The Lions of Teranga’ came into this World Cup as one of the main contenders to be the tournament’s ‘underdog’, even more so after their outstanding performance in January at the last Africa Cup of Nations, where they emerged as champions. It is true that Sadio Mané and Kalidou Koulibaly, Senegal’s two star players, are not at their best for this tournament and are getting on in years, but the talent gathered in the African squad should have been enough to ensure they performed considerably better. It is to be hoped that against Iraq they will pull out all the stops and secure a comfortable victory that will see them qualify for the round of 32 at the World Cup. The weakness of the Iraqi side and the Senegalese team’s attacking potential is a combination that should make this possible.
