Senegal Secures Round of 32 Spot in 2026 World Cup

Senegal's national football team advanced to the round of 32 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a decisive 5-0 victory against Iraq. The match took place in Toronto, where Senegal took an early lead within four minutes through a header from Abdoulay Seck, which deflected off Habib Diarra.

Iraq was reduced to ten men in the 13th minute when Rebin Sulaka received a red card. Senegal capitalized on this advantage, with Sadio Mané scoring after a VAR review, and Ismaïla Sarr and Pape Gueye each contributing two goals to complete the rout.

Senegal finished third in their group with three points, qualifying as one of the best third-place teams. Other African nations that secured their spots in the knockout stage include Morocco, South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Cabo Verde, and Ghana.

The tournament features a total of 48 teams, with the top two from each of the 12 groups and eight best third-place teams advancing.