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Iraq must beat Senegal in its final match to stay in the 2026 World Cup
Iraq's national football team, despite losing its first two matches at the 2026 World Cup, can stay in the tournament by defeating Senegal in its final group game.
Iraq's national football team sits at the bottom of its group after defeats to Norway and France at the 2026 World Cup. The side has yet to record a victory.
The group picture
Iraq is last in Group 9 with zero points. France and Norway each have six points, while Senegal, like Iraq, has yet to earn a point but holds the advantage on goal difference.
Last chance: the Senegal match
To remain in the tournament, Iraq must beat Senegal in its final match. A draw or a defeat would mean elimination from the World Cup.
A win over Senegal would lift Iraq to three points and put it in contention for a place among the best third-placed teams. In that scenario, results from other groups would also determine Iraq's fate.
Iraq's goal difference currently stands at minus six. A decisive victory against Senegal could improve that figure and boost the team's chances.
A historic opportunity
Iraq has never won a match at a World Cup finals. The team also failed to earn a point at its first appearance in 1986 and faces a similar situation in the current tournament.
However, under the new 48-team format, a number of third-placed sides can advance to the next round, offering Iraq a historic opportunity.
Under head coach Graham Arnold, Iraq will throw everything at its final match.
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