Senegal and Iraq meet in a must-win clash at Toronto Stadium on Friday, 26 June 2026 to decide third place in FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I. Both teams arrived with zero points after back-to-back defeats to France and Norway, making this a knockout game for the Lions of Mesopotamia.

What happened so far?

Iraq lost their opening two games. On 16 June 2026, the Lions of Mesopotamia were thrashed 4-1 by Norway in Boston; Erling Haaland scored twice in the first half, while Aymen Hussein scored before turning the ball into his own net late on. Six days later, Iraq fell 3-0 to France in Philadelphia; Kylian Mbappé struck twice, with Ousmane Dembélé adding the third.

Senegal also lost their first two games. On 16 June 2026, the Lions of Teranga went down 3-1 to France in New York; Mbappé netted twice, with Bradley Barcola adding the third. Six days later, Senegal lost 3-2 to Norway in a game they dominated statistically, but Norway prevailed thanks to another Haaland brace.

Why this clash matters for Iraq?

Before kick-off, Iraq and Senegal were tied on zero points and bottom of the group, but Iraq led on goal difference. Now, any result can still send one of them through as one of the best third-placed sides. Iraq need to shore up a leaky defence that has already shipped seven goals in two games.

The manager will look for a more compact shape and exploit any Senegalese error. Yet Senegal, ranked 19th in the world, bring a stronger attack led by Ismaila Sarr and Nicolas Jackson, making life tough for Iraq, currently 60th.

What do the experts predict?

Most forecasts tip a Senegal win by 3-1, citing the ranking gap and Senegal’s superior firepower. Betting tips lean toward Senegal to win, both teams to score, and over 2.5 goals.

What scenarios could unfold after the match?

A Senegal victory keeps them in the hunt for a top-third spot, while Iraq will need outside help. A draw leaves both in limbo, dependent on other group results. An Iraq win would put them in pole position for a Round of 16 berth as one of the best third-placed sides.

Last result: Senegal 5-0 Iraq (2026-06-26).