Senegal vs Iraq

Senegal produced a statement performance in a must-win finale, thrashing already-eliminated Iraq 5-0 to massively boost their goal difference and their hopes of advancing as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Sadio Mané and his teammates knew a big win was essential after losses to France and Norway in their opening two matches, and they delivered in style. The result leaves Senegal's fate in the balance pending the conclusion of the remaining groups, but their dominant performance gives them a fighting chance of reaching the Round of 32 for the first time since 2022. For Iraq, the defeat brings a disappointing end to their first World Cup appearance since 1986, finishing without a single point from their three group games.