Senegal vs Iraq — World Cup 2026 Group · Matchday 3
Venue
To be confirmed
Date
Friday, 26 June 2026
Kickoff
Match preview / What to expect
Updated Jun 6, 2026Senegal face Iraq in a Group I clash that could be decisive for both. Senegal, perennial African contenders, carry power and pace through Nicolas Jackson and Ismaïla Sarr, with Kalidou Koulibaly marshalling at the back.
Iraq, under Graham Arnold, are organised and combative, with Aymen Hussein offering a focal point and Zidane Iqbal adding quality in midfield.
Senegal hold the edge in individual quality, but Iraq's resilience could make this a grind if the Lions of Teranga don't take their chances.
Key storylines
- 01Senegal's attacking pace vs Iraq's disciplined structure
- 02Koulibaly's leadership at the heart of the Senegal defence
- 03Arnold's Iraq aiming to spring a surprise
Prediction
Kickoff editorial call
Senegal 2-0 Iraq
Projected lineups
Projected XI — not confirmed
Senegal
Formation 4-3-3- 1É. Mendy
- 2K. Diatta
