World Cup 2026: Pape Thiaw speaks about a 'final' against Iraq

Edouard Mendy is the only absentee, the rest of the Teranga Lions squad is ready

Africa 25 June 2026 at 17:09

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World Cup 2026: Pape Thiaw speaks about a 'final' against Iraq

26.06.26 FT World Cup

Senegal

Iraq

The Senegal national team faces a decisive clash in the World Cup on Friday against Iraq. Pape Thiaw described tomorrow's encounter with Iraq as "a final for both teams," with kickoff set for 19:00 GMT.

Iraq is a technically and tactically disciplined team and can be very dangerous, especially in attack. If we want to continue in this tournament, we have to win.

On the eve of the crucial showdown against Iraq, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw called on his players to respond after two consecutive defeats. Realizing the importance of the match, he stressed the need for unity to secure victory and keep qualification hopes alive… pic.twitter.com/4tF9EUGoxw
— RTS SENEGAL (@RTS1_Senegal) June 25, 2026

After criticism following the 1-3 loss to France and the 2-3 defeat against Norway, Pape Thiaw is calling for unity and support from the fans.

The team needs its supporters. We need them to push the players and help us qualify.

From a technical standpoint, everything is in order. "All players are ready for tomorrow's match except for Edouard Mendy," confirmed the Teranga Lions' coach. The Al-Ahli goalkeeper was injured against Norway and has been officially ruled out of the Iraq fixture.

𝙋𝙍𝙊𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙄𝙉 𝙈𝘼𝙏𝘾𝙃 | The Teranga Lions return to the pitch this Friday in Toronto for their final group stage match against Iraq. #GoGainde | #FIFAWC2026 pic.twitter.com/MuqeKrg4Dr
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) June 24, 2026