Senegal goalkeeper Mory Diaw has discussed his World Cup experience against Iraq in 2026. Diaw's comments came after Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab announced his signing from French side Le Havre on a one-year deal.
Reuters reported on Monday, August 24, 2026, that the transfer was complete. The 33-year-old goalkeeper started against Iraq in Group I of the global tournament. That match was part of a difficult campaign for the Iraq national team, which finished fourth in its group with zero points.
How was the World Cup match against Iraq?
Mory Diaw said he started against Iraq after first-choice keeper Edouard Mendy was injured during the Norway match. The Senegalese goalkeeper explained his team faced a significant challenge in the match that ended with a 5-0 victory for Senegal. This defeat was one of five consecutive losses for Iraq in the tournament.
Iraq scored only one goal across its three World Cup matches while conceding 12 times. This negative goal difference (-11) summarizes the defensive difficulties the team faced. Full statistics for the Iraq team are available on our stats page.
What was Iraq's path in the 2026 World Cup?
The Iraq national team lost all three of its group stage matches at the 2026 World Cup. The results were: a 5-0 defeat to Senegal on June 26, followed by losses to Norway and the Netherlands. This record (0 wins, 0 draws, 3 losses) meant the team exited at the first stage for the second consecutive World Cup.
The team's recent records indicate ongoing problems, having lost its last five matches consecutively. The team's standing and participation details can be followed on our standings page.
What does Diaw's move to Al Shabab mean?
Mory Diaw moves to the Saudi Pro League after a season with Le Havre in Ligue 1. The goalkeeper made 30 league appearances last season and has eight international caps for his country. Diaw stated that his World Cup experience, including the Iraq match, was an important point in his career.
Diaw's transfer follows Al Shabab's signing of Ghana's Thomas Partey on a free transfer during the close season. The Saudi club has yet to register a win after two league matches. Club sources confirmed that signing Diaw aims to strengthen the defensive line.
What is next for the Iraq national team after the World Cup?
The Iraq national team faces a significant rebuilding challenge after its disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup. The 5-0 defeat to Senegal was the heaviest in the team's tournament history. Coaches need a comprehensive review of performance, particularly in defense where 12 goals were conceded.
The next task will be preparing the team for upcoming challenges in Asian qualifiers. Fans can follow squad updates on our squad page. Iraq's football administration needs a clear plan to improve results after the five consecutive losses that ended the team's World Cup participation.
