XIs out for a qualifying ticket: Senegal face Iraq

In the final Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Senegal and Iraq face off for third place and a round-of-32 spot, and the starting XIs for both teams have been announced. Both sides, who lost their first two matches, will fight to finish third in the group and reach qualification among the eight best third-placed teams. For that reason, goal difference could play a decisive role in the outcome.

For Senegal, head coach Pape Thiaw sets up with an impressive attack. Stars like Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Lamine Camara feature in the XI, while Senegal need more than a win; a high-scoring victory is required to rank among the best third-placed teams. A draw, meanwhile, would eliminate both teams, though it should treat supporters to an attacking affair. Despite two errors against Norway, Moussa Niakhaté keeps his place in the heart of defense, and Senegal, ranked 15th, are the favorites on the pitch with that advantage.

For Iraq, head coach Graham Arnold faces a tough task with a side ranked 57th in the world. The Lions of Mesopotamia, who suffered the misfortune of being drawn into the "Group of Death," will try to be effective in attack with names like Bayesh and Al Hamadi in their XI. Led by their captain figures, Iraq aim to set up a disciplined defense against Senegal's attacking power. Ex-Manchester United talent Zidane Iqbal is expected to pull the strings in midfield.

This match carries great importance for both teams. Senegal want to translate their advantage on paper onto the pitch, claim their first win of the tournament and advance to the next round. Iraq, though their pre-tournament form was not encouraging, aim to maintain the resilience of their first two matches and reach the knockout phase for the first time in their history with a surprise result. In this decider at BMO Field in Toronto, both teams are expected to push forward in search of goals.

Starting XIs
Senegal (4-2-3-1): Diaw; Diatta, Niakhate, Seck, Jakobs; Camara, Mbaye; Mane, Diarra, Sarr; Gueye
Iraq (4-1-4-1): Basil; Putros, Hashem, Sulaka, Doski; Iqbal; Jasim, Bayesh, Al Ammari, Qasem; Al Hamadi

Image: Yahoo Sports