The Lions of Teranga are here to remind everyone why they're Africa's standard-bearers. Senegal, playing without fear and with Sadio Mané marshalling the attack in what will be his final World Cup, come up against an Iraq side who have surprised nobody more than themselves by being in this position.
Iraq's opening win over Norway — built on compact defending and a Mohanad Ali wonder goal — has them in the mix. But Senegal's physicality, pace, and set-piece threat represent a different challenge entirely.
High energy, high press, vertical football with Mané as the reference point. Senegal's midfield trio outwork most sides in the world. When they turn the ball over, they're lethal on the break — and Ismaïla Sarr is absurdly dangerous in those moments.
Low block, five defenders, two banks of four that drop to five on defence. Iraq will try to soak up pressure and look for transitions — the same way they upset Norway. Senegal, however, have the personnel to break down deep defences.
Senegal take the game by the scruff of the neck from kick-off. Mané opens the scoring after 18 minutes — a header from an Ismaïla Sarr cross. Iraq's structure creaks but holds until the second half.
73 minutes: Ismaïla Sarr carries the ball from his own half, outpaces two defenders, and finishes clinically. Senegal 2–0. Iraq mount a valiant late rally that produces effort but no goals. Final: Senegal 2–0 Iraq. The Lions are in control of Group I.
A header at the back post from a Sarr cross. Simple, powerful, vintage Mané.
A 50-yard dribble finished in trademark fashion. The man is unstoppable in open space.
The engine room that never gets enough credit. Gueye wins every second ball, breaks every counter, and lets the attack do its thing. Iraq won't get through him to create danger.