Senegal vs Iraq: Pride on the Line as Both Head Home

Predictions

Almost everyone expects Senegal to win comfortably, even though both teams are already out.

Senegal have far more quality, and they will want to end their World Cup with a win.

• Our prediction: Senegal win 3-0.
• Racing Post: a comfortable Senegal win.
• OneFootball: a Senegal win, with over 2.5 goals.

Why are both teams out?

Both Senegal and Iraq are already out of the 2026 World Cup, with 0 points in Group I.

France and Norway have taken the top 2 spots, so there is no way back for either team.

Senegal lost to France 3-1 and Norway 3-2, while Iraq lost to Norway 4-1 and France 3-0.

Why are Senegal big favorites?

Senegal are one of the strongest teams in Africa, ranked around 15th in the world.

Their star is Sadio Mané, the number 10, backed by Nicolas Jackson, the number 11, and Ismaïla Sarr, the number 18.

They have not played their best yet, but on talent they are well ahead of Iraq.

The bookmakers agree, making Senegal heavy favorites at about -375.

Want those odds in another format? Our odds converter does the math for you.

What can Iraq take from this?

Iraq are at their first World Cup since 1986, a 40-year wait, so reaching the tournament is already special.

They have struggled on the pitch, losing both games and scoring only once.

A goal, or even a win here, would be a proud moment for their fans.

Forward Aymen Hussein, the number 18, will lead the line and hope to finally find the net.

Our call: Senegal 3-0

We are going with a comfortable 3-0 Senegal win.

Senegal have too much quality up front, and they will want to sign off with a good performance.

Iraq have found goals hard to come by, so keeping Senegal out for 90 minutes looks tough.

Expect Mané and Jackson to test the Iraq defense all game.

What is at stake in Group I?

Honestly, not much, because both teams are heading home after this game.

The real prize, 1st place, is being decided in the other game, Norway vs France.

Here it is about pride, and about who avoids finishing bottom of the group.

For Senegal's stars, it is a last chance to leave a good final memory at this World Cup.

Where and when can you watch?

The game is on Friday June 26, 2026, at BMO Field in Toronto.

Kickoff is 15:00 (3:00 PM) Eastern time.

You can also see all the details on the match page.

Need a seat for it? Take a look at our World Cup tickets guide.