In a stunning display of dominance, Senegal crushed Iraq 5-0 on Friday at BMO Field in Toronto, wrapping up the group stage of Group I in the 2026 World Cup. This emphatic win propelled Senegal into the round of 32 as one of the top eight third-placed teams in the tournament.
The match began with a burst of energy as H. Diarra netted the opening goal just four minutes in. The game's dynamics shifted dramatically when R. Sulaka from Iraq received a red card in the 13th minute, leaving his team to battle with ten men for nearly the entire match.
With the advantage of an extra player, Senegal maintained control, boasting 69% ball possession and launching 27 shots, 11 of which were on target. In contrast, Iraq made only six attempts, with a single shot on goal.
Ismaila Sarr extended Senegal's lead to 2-0 in the 56th minute. Just a minute later, the Senegalese coach made a strategic triple substitution, introducing Pape Gueye, who quickly emerged as the afternoon's standout performer. Gueye scored in the 59th minute and again in the 71st, pushing the score to 4-0.
Iliman Ndiaye sealed the victory with a fifth goal in the 82nd minute, marking the most decisive win by an African team in World Cup history.
Group I concluded with France at the top, having secured nine points with a perfect record, followed by Norway with six points, and Senegal in third place with three points, a goal difference of +2, and eight goals scored, enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Iraq, participating in the World Cup for the first time since 1986, ended their campaign with zero points, managing only one goal while conceding 12 across three matches, resulting in their elimination.
Senegal entered this crucial match after losing their first two games: 3-1 against France and 3-2 against Norway, with Haaland scoring twice. A significant win was essential for their hopes of advancing in the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup format, featuring 48 teams split into 12 groups of four, allows the top eight third-placed teams from each group to progress to the next round. Senegal capitalized on this opportunity with a commanding performance.
Senegal's World Cup Success and Key Moments
How did Senegal secure their place in the round of 32?
Senegal secured their spot in the round of 32 by defeating Iraq 5-0, which allowed them to qualify as one of the top eight third-placed teams in the group stage.
What was significant about Pape Gueye's performance?
Pape Gueye made a significant impact by scoring two goals shortly after being substituted into the game, contributing heavily to Senegal's historic win.
What was the outcome for Iraq in the 2026 World Cup?
Iraq ended their World Cup journey without any points, scoring only once and conceding 12 goals across their matches, resulting in their elimination.