The Senegal national team kept their hopes alive for reaching the round of 16 by dismantling Iraq’s defense in Toronto. Both sides had suffered defeats in their opening matches, so a commanding victory was essential. The African squad delivered spectacularly, recording the largest margin of victory ever achieved by an African nation at the World Cup.
The hosts wasted no time asserting themselves, with Habib Diarra opening the scoring in the fourth minute by redirecting a header into the net. Iraq’s situation worsened dramatically in the 15th minute when referee Anthony Taylor, after consulting VAR, sent off Rebin Sulaka for a last-man foul.
Reduced to ten men, Iraq managed to hold on until halftime, but their resistance crumbled early in the second half. Within three minutes, Ismaila Sarr capitalized on a cross to double Senegal’s lead. Shortly after, substitute Pap Gate unleashed a brilliant curling shot to extend the advantage. Gate then completed his brace with a thunderous strike recorded at 132 km/h. The final flourish came in the 82nd minute when Iliman Ndiaye sealed the emphatic 5-0 triumph with a stylish finish. Provided other group results hold, Senegal will advance to the knockout stage alongside England.
2026 World Cup
Senegal 5–0 Iraq (1–0)
Goals: Habib Diarra 4’ (1–0); Ismaila Sarr 56’ (2–0); Pap Gate 59’ (3–0), 72’ (4–0); Iliman Ndiaye 82’ (5–0)
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