By Dennis Okechukwu
Senegal produced a scintillating second-half performance to crush 10-man Iraq 5-0 on Friday and move to the brink of qualification for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Group I encounter appeared destined to be a modest victory after Habib Diarra’s fourth-minute opener separated the sides for much of the contest. However, Senegal erupted after the break, scoring four more goals to boost their goal difference and significantly strengthen their hopes of advancing.
Iraq’s task became even more difficult after defender Rebin Sulaka was sent off in the 13th minute, forcing the Asian side to play with 10 men for most of the match. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Iraq frustrated Senegal for long periods before eventually succumbing to relentless pressure.
Ismaila Sarr doubled Senegal’s lead in the 56th minute after capitalising on an Iraqi defensive error. Substitute Pape Gueye then transformed the contest, scoring twice in quick succession with spectacular long-range strikes in the 59th and 71st minutes.
Iliman Ndiaye completed the rout with another stunning effort in the 82nd minute, sealing a memorable victory that made Senegal the first African nation to score five goals in a men’s FIFA World Cup match.
The emphatic win leaves the African champions on the verge of reaching the knockout rounds, with goal difference proving decisive in improving their position among the teams battling for qualification. Senegal could now face England in the Round of 32 if results elsewhere go in their favour.
Pape Gueye was named Player of the Match after his remarkable cameo, needing less than two minutes after coming off the bench to score the first of his two outstanding goals.
While Senegal celebrated a historic victory, Iraq exited the tournament with pride despite the heavy defeat, earning applause from their travelling supporters, who remained in the stands until the final whistle at Toronto’s packed BMO Field.