2026 World Cup Group I: Senegal vs Iraq Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 26)

• When: Friday, June 26, 2026. 3:00 PM ET
• Where: BMO Field, Toronto, Canada
• How to Watch: FS1

The 2026 World Cup starts the third round of matches with the final matchup in Group I getting underway in Toronto as Senegal takes on Iraq. Both squads are competing for a spot in the Round of 32, meaning that there will be a lot of pressure on both nations in MD3.

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Senegal Stats & Team News

It’s now or never for Senegal to fight for its place in the knockout rounds. They suffered tough defeats to France and Norway by 3-1 and 3-2 scores, showing the offense to compete but the defense leaves a lot to be desired.

Senegal will need to have its best performance on both sides of the ball, especially on defense with a chance to obtain a clean sheet. The backline, having conceded three goals in back-to-back games, must lock in for the squad to earn the win and remain alive in the race for a spot in the next round.

Likely Lineup:

(4-3-3) Diaw (GK); Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté, Diouf; I.G. Gueye, P. Gueye, Camara; Sarr, Jackson, Mané

Iraq Stats & Team News

Iraq stands out as the massive underdog in Group I, suffering expected losses to Norway and France by 4-1 and 3-0 scores. The Iraqis remain alive due to Senegal’s losses but will need to pull off an upset win to finish at third place and be in the mix for the Round of 32.

Aymen Hussein had the honor of scoring Iraq’s first World Cup goal since 1986, looking to play a big role in the attack in the group finale. As for the defense, having conceded seven goals so far, they will need to hold off the advances of Sadio Mane, Nicolas Jackson, and Ismaila Sarr.

Likely Lineup:

(4-1-3-2) Fadhil (GK); Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, Doski; Iqbal; Farji, Al-Ammari, Jasim; Al Hamadi, Hussein

Head-to-Head Stats

• This is the first all-time meeting between Senegal and Iraq.
• This marks the first competitive meeting between the nations.

Senegal vs. Iraq World Cup Picks

This game stands out as a must-win for both teams, especially for Senegal as they seek back-to-back appearances in the knockout stage. However, Iraq will have inspiration to apply solid pressure on the desperate African side and make history in this showdown. It would be safe to believe that Senegal takes this one by a 3-1 score.