Senegal Boost Knockout Hopes With Emphatic Win Over Iraq

Senegal produced an impressive display to defeat Iraq 5-0 in their final Group I fixture, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.

The Lions of Teranga made a dream start, taking the lead in the fourth minute through Habib Diarra. The early breakthrough put Senegal in complete control, while Iraq's task became even more difficult nine minutes later when defender Rebin Sulaka was shown a straight red card for bringing down Sadio Mane as he raced toward goal.

Although Senegal created several chances before halftime, they entered the break with only a one-goal advantage.

The African side came out firing after the restart and doubled their lead in the 56th minute. Iraq gifted possession away in a dangerous area, allowing Lamine Camara to set up Ismaila Sarr for a simple finish.

Substitute Pape Gueye made an instant impact by curling home Senegal's third goal just minutes after entering the match.

The midfielder struck again in the 71st minute with another powerful effort to put the contest beyond doubt.

Iliman Ndiaye completed the scoring eight minutes from time, sealing a convincing 5-0 triumph for Pape Thiaw's men.

The emphatic win lifts Senegal onto three points in Group I and significantly improves their goal difference. However, their qualification for the last 32 is not yet guaranteed, as they must now wait for results in other groups to determine whether they progress as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.