Pape Thiaw expresses his delight following the victory over Iraq and Senegal’s qualification for the round of 32

The Lions of Teranga put in a superb performance against Iraq to secure their place in the next round of the 2026 World Cup.

On the brink of elimination ahead of the final matchday of the group stage at the World Cup currently being held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Senegal found the resources needed to stay in the competition. The Lions of Teranga thrashed Iraq 5–0 in Group I to secure their place in the round of 32. At the end of the match, Pape Thiaw made no secret of his satisfaction. The Senegalese manager praised his players’ determination.

“I congratulate my whole team. This match meant a great deal to us. We had to win and keep our hopes alive. Scoring five goals is a very good result. We were up against an Iraqi side that caused us problems in the first half. At half-time, we made some adjustments and brought on substitutes, which paid off. We scored four goals after the break. The job is done.”