Senegal vs Iraq: World Cup 2026 Group I Preview
Senegal, the second-highest ranked African nation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, face Iraq in their Group I match on Friday, June 26, at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada. The contest pairs an established African side making its fourth World Cup appearance against a nation returning to the global tournament for only the second time in its history.
What Senegal Bring to the Contest
Senegal arrive at the 2026 World Cup ranked 16th in the FIFA standings, a position that places them second among African nations in the tournament field, behind Morocco. The Senegalese made their World Cup debut in 2002 and have since established themselves as one of the continent's most reliable footballing powers.
At Qatar 2022, Senegal reached the Round of 16, a result they will seek to improve upon in North America. Their roster carries considerable quality. Sadio Mané remains the focal point of the attack, supported by Kalidou Koulibaly at the back, Nicolas Jackson leading the line, and a midfield anchored by Pape Matar Sarr and Ismaila Sarr. The depth of talent at Senegal's disposal makes them the clear favourites in this Group I encounter.
Iraq's Return to the World Stage
Iraq's presence at the 2026 World Cup marks only their second appearance at the tournament. Their sole previous outing came at Mexico 1986, where they finished at the bottom of a group that included the host nation, Paraguay and Belgium. Ranked 57th by FIFA, Iraq sit among the lowest-ranked sides in the tournament field.
The Iraqis are managed by Graham Arnold, the Australian coach who guided his native country to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup. Arnold will attempt to replicate that achievement with an entirely different nation. Zidane Iqbal and Aymen Hussein are the principal players to watch on the Iraqi squad.
When Does Senegal vs Iraq Kick Off?
The Group I match is scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada. For viewers in Eswatini, the match kicks off at 9:00 p.m. local time (SAST).
How to Watch Senegal vs Iraq
In the United States, the match will be broadcast on FS1, with streaming options available on the network's dedicated platforms. The streaming service fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, providing access to ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and over 100 channels of live television and sports without cable. Participating plans only; taxes and fees may apply.
Broadcast details for viewers in Eswatini and the broader Southern African region will be confirmed closer to the match date through local and continental broadcasters.
2026 FIFA World Cup: Key Tournament Details
The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 through July 19, 2026. It is the first World Cup hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico. Matches will be played across 16 host cities in North America.
The host cities are Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle in the United States; Toronto and Vancouver in Canada; and Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey in Mexico.
The tournament features 48 teams, an expansion from the 32-team format used in previous editions. The larger field brings 104 matches in total, including the group stage, knockout rounds and the final.
African nations in the tournament field include Senegal, Morocco, Algeria, Cape Verde, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Tunisia.
How Many Teams Are in the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup features 48 teams, expanded from the previous 32-team format. The tournament includes 104 matches across the group stage, knockout rounds and final.
When Is the 2026 World Cup Final?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026, at New York-New Jersey Stadium, FIFA's designation for MetLife Stadium.
Which African Nations Qualified for the 2026 World Cup?
Ten African nations qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Senegal, Morocco, Algeria, Cape Verde, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Tunisia. Senegal, at 16th in the FIFA rankings, is the second-highest ranked African side in the tournament behind Morocco.
Can I Stream the 2026 World Cup?
Yes. Streaming options vary by match, language and broadcast partner. In the United States, Fox Sports carries English-language coverage on FOX and FS1, available on fubo, while Telemundo streams every match live on Peacock and the Telemundo App for Spanish-language coverage. Viewers in Eswatini should consult local broadcast listings for streaming availability in the region.