Senegal vs Iraq live updates: World Cup 2026 game latest news and buildup

Senegal entered as a popular pick to make the round of 32, and for good reason. They are only months removed from a controversial and still-contested Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.

They are also full of world-class talent such as Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr and former Liverpool star Sadio Mane, now with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

And yet, they have had a difficult World Cup so far — albeit against two very good opponents in France and Norway.

They lost to France 3-1 in the opener with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice, and then were unable to overcome Erling Haaland’s second-half double in their second match despite Sarr also scoring twice after the interval.

Even with that, a win today could see them through to the round of 32. Especially if they can improve their goal difference today.