Senegal defeats Iraq 5‑0, keeping World Cup hopes alive

Senegal became the first African side to score five goals in a World Cup match, a stunning double by Pape Gueye helping them to a 5‑0 victory over a 10‑man Iraq in their final Group I game on Friday.

The win also improved Senegal’s chances of advancing to the last 32 as one of the eight best third‑placed teams – they have the best goal difference among teams on three points.

Iraq finished the tournament without a point after a disappointing campaign, despite a difficult qualification journey.

Senegal struck early when Habib Diarra’s slight touch allowed Abdoulaye Seck to head a corner into the net, giving him his first international goal since scoring in a friendly against England last year.

Iraq’s already slim hopes were further dented a few minutes later when defender Rebin Sulaka, who had been added to the starting lineup by coach Graham Arnold, was sent off after 13 minutes. Referee Anthony Taylor issued a red card following a VAR review for fouling Sadio Mane when the Senegal talisman was clear on goal. It was the earliest red card of the nine in the tournament and the fourth fastest in World Cup history.

With a man down, Iraq failed to create any significant chances in the remainder of the first half. Senegal, however, managed only one shot, with Ismail Jacobs’ powerful strike from outside the box missing the target but beating the keeper.

Senegal entered the second half with renewed intent. Iraq had to replace goalkeeper Ahmed Basil, who had been knocked out in the first half, with Jalal Hassan at the break. Hassan survived the early onslaught but was unable to stop Senegal’s momentum.

Ismaila Sarr scored in the 56th minute, his third goal of the tournament, after a defensive error by former Manchester United player Zidane Iqbal deep in his own half gave Senegal possession. The second goal brought relief, and Sarr celebrated by lying on his back and pumping his fists in joy.

Then Pape Gueye delivered a spectacular performance. Within 89 seconds of coming on as a substitute, he struck from outside the box with a curling effort that left Hassan no chance, giving Senegal a 3‑0 lead in the 59th minute. The Villarreal midfielder followed with a vicious half‑volley twelve minutes later that sailed past the keeper.

Coach Arnold was left leaning on the dugout, shaking his head ruefully, as Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye added another screamer eight minutes from time, sealing the 5‑0 result.