Senegal vs Iraq prediction 26.06.2026 | FIFA World Cup 2026

Senegal’s campaign has been defined by competitiveness without control. Against Norway, they were undone in a chaotic 3-2 defeat where individual defensive errors proved decisive, including lapses acknowledged by captain Kalidou Koulibaly following the match. 

Despite that, Senegal have shown consistent attacking output, scoring in both group matches and generating sustained pressure in phases of play, particularly through wide transitions and forward runners.

Nicolas Jackson has been one of their most active attacking outlets, frequently stretching opposition back lines, while Ismaïla Sarr has provided direct goal threat in transition moments, scoring twice against Norway on Monday. 

However, defensive instability remains the key concern, with Senegal struggling to maintain structure under sustained pressure. Injury-wise, there are no major new absentees reported, but Koulibaly’s fitness and form remain under scrutiny after a physically demanding start to the tournament.

Iraq’s return to the World Cup has been defined by structural discipline issues and limited attacking production. The Middle Eastern side fell to France in a 3-0 defeat on Monday, but manager Graham Arnold remains optimistic about their progression chances despite back-to-back defeats. The coach stressed that “anything is still possible” given the expanded qualification pathway for third-placed teams.

However, performance data paints a more difficult picture: Iraq have conceded seven goals in two matches and have scored only one goal so far. Their attacking focal point, Aymen Hussein, has also been carrying a knock concern after being substituted in the opening match, raising doubts over his full effectiveness. 

Iraq’s approach is expected to be more conservative, prioritising compact defensive structure and counter-attacking opportunities through Ali Al-Hamadi and Zidane Iqbal.