It was a disappointing tournament for Iraq, which arrived in North America hoping to compete for a knockout-stage spot after a strong qualification in Asia. Instead, the team struggled against the quality of Group I and never managed to recover after the opening defeat.

Iraq’s World Cup journey began with a heavy 4-1 loss to Norway before another difficult night in a 3-0 defeat against France. Needing a victory over Senegal to keep their slim qualification hopes alive, Iraq instead suffered another loss, finishing at the bottom of Group I.

Why was Iraq eliminated from 2026 World Cup?

The answer is simple: Iraq failed to earn a single point during the group stage. The team entered the final match against Senegal needing all three points to have any realistic chance of advancing as one of the tournament’s best third-place teams. The 4-0 defeat officially ended those hopes, leaving Iraq with three losses in three matches.

Can Iraq still qualify with third-place format?

No. With the loss to Senegal, Iraq have been mathematically eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Even under the expanded format that sends the eight best third-place teams to the Round of 32, finishing with zero points leaves no path to qualification as they’re in the bottom of the group.

After suffering consecutive defeats to Norway and France, Iraq have slipped three places in the live FIFA World Ranking. A positive result against Senegal would not only boost their chances of reaching the Round of 32 but could also help recover some valuable ranking points.

Here’s a look at how the tournament has unfolded for Iraq and the variations in the FIFA ranking after those losses which put them in a very tough spot toward the knockout stages.

What is Iraq’s current FIFA ranking?

Iraq are currently ranked No. 60 in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,419.24 points. The team dropped three positions since the start of the 2026 World Cup following the performances in Group I.

How many FIFA ranking points have Iraq lost?

Iraq’s 4-1 defeat to Norway resulted in a loss of 19.75 FIFA ranking points. The team’s second defeat, a 3-0 loss to France, cost another 7.29 points. Those two results combined explain Iraq’s fall in the live FIFA rankings during the tournament.

Now facing Iraq in their final Group I match in Toronto, Senegal are fighting not only to keep their World Cup hopes alive, but also to recover valuable FIFA ranking points.

While the Lions of Teranga cannot erase all of the damage from their opening two defeats with a single win, a positive result would provide an important boost heading into the next FIFA ranking update. They have to bounce back after a remarkable African Cup of Nations.

What is Senegal’s current FIFA ranking?

Senegal are currently ranked No. 23 in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,638.36 points. The Africans have dropped four places since the start of the 2026 World Cup after suffering consecutive defeats in Group I.

How many FIFA ranking points have Senegal lost?

Senegal’s opening 3-1 defeat to France cost the team 16.41 FIFA ranking points. The damage became even greater after the dramatic 3-2 loss to Norway, which resulted in another 29.30-point deduction. Those two defeats combined explain why Senegal has fallen several places in the live FIFA rankings during the tournament.

They opened the tournament with a 3-1 defeat against France before falling 3-2 to Norway in a thrilling match. From that moment on, their only path is to clinch a ticket as one of the best third-place teams of the tournament.

Now, in a desperate position heading into the final group-stage match against Iraq, there’s a slim chance of reaching the Round of 32. It’s a very complicated scenario. The uniforms for Senegal and Iraq are set and will probably spark questions.

What happens if Senegal win vs Iraq?

A win over Iraq — the No. 60 ranked nation by FIFA — would give Senegal three points, but qualification would still not be guaranteed. The African side would need several favorable results in other groups to finish among the tournament’s eight best third-place teams. They need a victory with a big goal difference to have a chance. Winning is the only result that keeps Senegal’s World Cup hopes alive.

What happens if Senegal tie with Iraq?

A tie with Iraq would eliminate Senegal. The Lions would finish the group stage with just one point, which is far from enough to qualify for the Round of 32 under the expanded World Cup format. Even favorable results elsewhere would not be enough to save them.

What happens if Senegal lose to Iraq?

A loss against Iraq would also eliminate Senegal from the tournament. The African nation would finish at the bottom of Group I with zero points after losing all three group-stage matches. For a team that arrived with high expectations, it would rank among the biggest disappointments of the 2026 World Cup, especially considering Senegal are ranked much higher than Iraq in the FIFA World Rankings.

2026 World Cup Group I standings

Taylor is no stranger to the World Cup. He recently officiated the match between Colombia and Uzbekistan, which was a relatively calm affair. He handed out just two yellow cards, called 25 fouls, and didn’t need to show a single red card.

Senegal lost its first two World Cup matches, making this their final opportunity to secure a victory and see if there is any mathematical chance to advance to the knockout stage, where several other national teams have already clinched spots.

Taylor likes to let them play

Taylor, who will wear a yellow shirt to officiate Senegal vs. Iraq, averages 2.33 yellow cards per match in the World Cup, factoring in his experience from the 2022 edition. He usually isn’t too harsh on players. However, Senegal might play with a bit too much confidence, which could lead to fouls that Taylor won’t simply overlook.

Taylor hasn’t issued a red card since the CAF World Cup Qualifiers back in September 2025. With a remarkably low average of just 0.09 red cards per match, Match 62 isn’t likely to turn into a disciplinary disaster.

Senegal and Iraq keeping fouls to a minimum

Iraq enters this match with only two yellow cards, proving to be a highly disciplined team that avoids reckless challenges to keep players from getting sent off. Senegal, on the other hand, managed to avoid yellow cards entirely in their previous group stage matches.

Toronto Stadium, the tournament name for BMO Field, will stage the matchup in downtown Toronto. Matchday conditions should be comfortable for players and supporters alike, with temperatures forecast to reach around 24°C (75°F).

Climate analysts estimate only a modest risk of performance-impairing heat and a packed crowd is expected to fill the stands, continuing the strong attendance seen throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto.

What is the capacity of Toronto Stadium for the 2026 World Cup?

Toronto Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 45,000 spectators for the 2026 World Cup. The venue underwent a major expansion ahead of the tournament, increasing its capacity from around 30,000 to 45,000 seats to meet FIFA’s hosting requirements.

Located at Exhibition Place, the stadium is one of only two Canadian venues hosting matches during the tournament, alongside Vancouver’s BC Place. FIFA refers to the venue as “Toronto Stadium” throughout the World Cup because commercial stadium naming rights are suspended during FIFA competitions.

The expanded venue will stage six World Cup matches, including five group-stage games and one Round of 32 fixture. Senegal vs. Iraq is among the final group-stage contests to be played in Toronto, with another sellout crowd expected as supporters from both nations.

What is the altitude of Toronto and will it affect the match?

Toronto’s altitude is not expected to affect Senegal vs. Iraq. The city sits at roughly 76 meters (249 feet) above sea level, making it one of the lowest-elevation host cities at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Unlike venues in Mexico, where altitude can exceed 2,000 meters, Toronto presents virtually no physiological challenges related to thinner air. Instead, weather is the environmental factor that could have a greater impact.

The match is expected to be played under warm summer conditions and Climate Central estimates a 19% chance of performance-impairing heat, defined as temperatures above 28°C (82.4°F).

While that risk remains relatively low, FIFA’s protocols are in place should conditions warrant cooling breaks or additional player safety measures. Players from both teams are unlikely to need extra time to acclimatize to the elevation.

How have Senegal and Iraq performed at the 2026 World Cup?

Neither Senegal nor Iraq has won a match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving both teams on the brink of elimination entering their final Group I fixture. Each side lost its opening two matches, making Friday’s meeting a must-win.

Senegal entered the World Cup as one of Africa’s most highly regarded teams but has struggled defensively. The Lions of Teranga opened their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to France before suffering a 3-2 loss to Norway.

Injuries, including the absence of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, have complicated their campaign and head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw described the Iraq match as “a sort of final”. Iraq has also found points difficult to come by.

Graham Arnold‘s side lost its opener to Norway before falling 3-0 to France, a match interrupted by a lengthy weather delay in Philadelphia. Although Iraq has shown periods of organized play, the team has struggled to make goals.

With France and Norway already securing progression from Group I, Senegal and Iraq now meet knowing that only a victory can keep their World Cup dreams alive under FIFA’s expanded 48-team format.

After two losses in their first two matches, neither nation can afford a slip-up in the final Group I fixture. With qualification scenarios hanging in the balance, the stakes could hardly be higher.

As fans prepare for kickoff, FIFA has also confirmed the uniforms both teams will wear for this decisive encounter. It’s going to be a very interesting combination in both kits.

What uniform is Senegal wearing today?

Senegal will take the field in an all-white kit. The Lions of Teranga will wear white shirts, white shorts, and white socks as they attempt to secure the three points needed to stay in contention for a place in the knockout stage. This look is one of the most recognizable combinations used by the African nation on the international stage.

What uniform is Iraq wearing today?

Iraq will wear an all-green uniform for the match. The Iraqi side is set to appear in green shirts, green shorts, and green socks as they fight to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Why is this match so important?

This is the final Group I match for both nations, and the margin for error is gone. A victory is essential if either team wants to maintain realistic hopes of advancing to the Round of 32. Anything less could leave their World Cup campaign at risk of ending before the knockout stage begins.

How to watch Senegal vs Iraq in the USA

Viewers in the United States can catch every moment of this marquee matchup live on FS1 and Telemundo via standard television broadcasts.

Fans can also stream the game through Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, or Peacock Premium. Be sure to tune in.

Can I watch Senegal vs Iraq for free?

Fans in the United States can stream this must-watch showdown live on Fubo or DirecTV Stream. New eligible subscribers may receive a free five-day trial.

Both platforms provide nationwide live access, allowing fans to follow every key moment, crucial stretch, and decisive play from start to finish in real time.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

After disappointing World Cup runs, Senegal and Iraq meet looking to finish the tournament on a positive note.

Senegal entered the competition hoping to challenge group favorites France and Norway, particularly with Sadio Mane leading the way, but those expectations fell short despite a late surge against Norway.

A win could be enough to claim third place, though the limited point total and poor goal difference make a significant climb unlikely. Instead, both Senegal and Iraq will be aiming to close out their campaign with a strong result and the highest finish possible.

Senegal vs Iraq: Predicted Lineups

Senegal (4-3-3): E. Mendy; I. Jakobs, K. Koulibaly, M. Niakhate, El H. M. Diouf; I. Gueye, P. Matar Sarr, L. Camara; I. Sarr, S. Mane, I. Ndiaye.

Iraq (4-4-2): J. Hassan; M. Doski, R. Sulaka, M. Younis, Z. Tahseen; I. Bayesh, Z. Iqbal, A. Al-Ammari, A. Jasim; A. Hussein, A. Al-Hamadi.

What time is the Senegal vs Iraq match?

The match kicks off today, June 26, at 3:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
Central Time: 2:00 PM
Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

Norway and France will battle it out in Matchday 3 to see who will end up as the top seed of Group I. After all, both come into the game with the same points. Their head-to-head is crucial.

As for Senegal, the future looks very cloudy as only a miracle would keep them alive as one of the best eight third-place spots that qualify to the next round. Still, they need to beat Iraq in big fashion to get there.

2026 World Cup Group I standings

With both Norway and France looking very dominant, their Matchday 3 game will define the winner and runner-up of this group, making the runner-up one of the most difficult draws for the runner-up of Group E, who they’ll face.

Are Senegal out of the 2026 World Cup after loss vs. Senegal?

Because both France and Norway have six points, the top two spots are entirely locked up. Senegal’s only way into the Round of 32 is to beat Iraq to secure three points and hope that their goal differential is enough to pass the third-place wild card cut. Hence, they need to score as much goals vs Iraq as possible.

The eight best third-placed teams out of 12 will advance to the Round of 32. Because teams have played an uneven number of games across groups, the wildcard table is highly fluid right now. What it’s confirmed is that Senegal must not only win, but run up the score vs. Iraq.

Norway currently are ranked in 27th in the FIFA World Rankings. The Vikings now have 1577.18 points and a win vs. Senegal would do wonders to keep climbing towards the all-coveted top 20.

Senegal won’t be an easy fit. In fact, this might be a very tough game for Norway to win. However, it’s in Norway’s best interest to add three points ahead of the must-watch game vs. France.

Norway’s FIFA ranking history

Norway’s highest-ever standing was second in the world in October 1993 and July-August 1995. That national team was starred Rune Bratseth, Erik Mykland, Kjetil Rekdal, and Erik Thorstvedt.

Meanwhile, their lowest point was 88th in July 2017. Hence, right now Norway are in the middle of their best and worth position. However, the fact is that this version of Norway is scarier than what their ranking currently is.

Norway’s last five games

Norway has lost once, tied twice, and won twice in its last five games. However, three of them were pre-World Cup friendlies. Norway was stellar in the qualifiers, winning all eight games.

He’s a tough referee for a match where Norway really needs a win rather than a draw or a loss against a Senegal team hungry for victory. Sampaio refereed the Mexico vs. South Africa match, where he handed out three yellow cards and three red cards.

That first match was quite a handful for Sampaio, but he managed to control it in the end, preventing either team from picking up too many red cards and forcing a forfeit. He averages a high 4.7 yellow cards per game, so both teams should expect to be booked if they don’t show some mutual respect.

An experienced referee for a grueling World Cup match

This will likely be one of the toughest matches of the day in a group stage that is already moving into the second round, where several teams have already been eliminated. Sampaio’s 184 matches of experience should be more than enough to keep any situation under control in this Group I clash.

Sampaio had to referee his first World Cup match in a massive environment like the Estadio Azteca in front of 80,824 fans, most of them backing Mexico. Now, he’ll be working in another pressure cooker for the Norway vs. Senegal match, in a stadium with almost the exact same capacity.

Sampaio’s stats in his first World Cup match

Aside from the red cards he handed out, Sampaio’s first match also saw a total of 23 fouls and 26 tackles. But despite the rain of cards and fouls, there wasn’t a single penalty called. He also whistled just two offsides in what was an intense, end-to-end match.

It’s worth noting that Sampaio was also at the 2022 World Cup, where he worked just four matches, never showed a single red card, and averaged 3.5 yellow cards during the tournament. Back then, he also refereed a match where Senegal lost 2-0 to the Netherlands.