Senegal

vs

Iraq

Injuries & Suspensions

• Senegal: É. Mendy (Twisted knee)

Form (Last 5)

• Home: L L
• Away: L L

Match Preview

Senegal to win by at least two goals - Iraq’s defence has been porous and Senegal should exploit chances even without É. Mendy.

Key Notes

Senegal are the clear favourites to win this match comprehensively. Both teams have struggled in the group - Senegal have two losses but have still scored three goals, while Iraq have conceded seven and scored just once. The defensive numbers for Iraq are particularly concerning: they have shipped goals across multiple periods and look vulnerable to sustained pressure. Senegal possess more attacking quality and should create enough high-quality chances to win comfortably.

One caveat is the injury to É. Mendy, listed as missing with a twisted knee. While the absence of a starting goalkeeper is significant, Senegal’s attacking balance and collective chances creation reduce the impact of a single defensive omission. Iraq’s defensive record suggests they will struggle to contain Senegal’s forward players regardless of who is in goal. Senegal’s tournament goals have arrived in phases, including late periods, which should further unsettle Iraq.

The Asian handicap option of Senegal minus 1.5 requires a win by two goals or more. Given Iraq’s tendency to concede and Senegal’s superior attacking numbers in tournament play, that margin is plausible. Tactical setup will matter: expect Senegal to control possession and probe for openings, while Iraq may be forced into risky defending that creates chances for counters and set pieces.

On a neutral venue, Senegal should still impose themselves and finish chances at a higher rate. The handicap offers value because it demands a decisive victory rather than a narrow one; Iraq’s defensive frailties and Senegal’s offensive capability make that outcome a realistic expectation. Back Senegal to win by at least two goals.

Prediction

Senegal -1.5 • Odds 1.71 • Confidence 7/10