Senegal will have one last throw of the dice in their final Group game against Iraq at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday evening in Toronto.
The Lions of Teranga have suffered back-to-back defeats in their two opening games against France and Norway. Their most recent match ended in a 3-2 loss inspired by an Erling Haaland brace.
Iraq have suffered the same fate, conceding seven goals and scoring just once in both defeats. Both teams are at the bottom of Group I without a point to their name.
This match brings with it some significance now as both sides look to still make it into the knockout phase as one of the best third-place teams.
Senegal are looking to replicate their performance from the last World Cup where they made it past the group stages and into the round of 16. Their best ever performance in the tournament remains the 2002 edition where they bowed out in the quarterfinals.
There are reports suggesting that there’s an apparent disconnect in the Senegal camp, due to funds owed from their AFCON victory. Despite the trouble, they have shown they can score goals and will be confident they can get a win here.
Can any of these sides get their first victory of the tournament and keep alive their hopes of qualification to the round of 32? Here is our predicted outcome of the crucial tie.
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What time does Senegal vs Iran start?
The match kicks off at 10PM E.A.T at the BMO Field
Senegal vs Iran team news
With a spot in the knockout phase on the line, Senegal are expected to field their strongest available XI for this game.
Kalidou Koulibaly has been solid defensively and he will martial his teammates from the back, alongside Moussa Diakhate.
Talisman Sadio Mane has not yet found his footing in the tournament but he will start here, as well as Ilman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr – who scored a brace against Norway.
Nicholas Jackson has been wasteful in front of goal but he will retain his spot up front.
Iraq are not expected to make any changes from the side that lost to France. The same starting XI will feature here, with Aymen Hussein leading from the front.
Senegal vs Iraq head-to-head and current form
The African giants have lost three of their last five matches, increasing their need to finally get a win here. They remain with just one win in that period.
They face an Iraq side who come into the game on a three-game losing streak, conceding nine goals and scoring just once.
This will be the first ever match between these two sides.
Current form:
Senegal – LLDLW
Iraq – LLLDW
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Senegal vs Iraq prediction
Senegal possess significantly more World Cup experience, greater individual quality and superior athleticism.
Iraq are expected to compete fiercely, but Senegal should have enough firepower to secure victory.
Prediction – Senegal to win – CLICK HERE TO PLACE YOUR BET ON THIS GAME!