Senegal Coach Pape Thiaw Calls Iraq Match a ‘Final’ for World Cup Hopes
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw said his team will not underestimate Iraq as they prepare for a crucial Group I encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto.
The West Africans arrive under pressure after consecutive losses to France and Norway, leaving their knockout‑stage hopes hanging by a thread. Thiaw admitted the situation is far from what they had expected, but stressed that victory is now the only option.
“There’s a lot of talk; we have to admit. It’s normal when you’re coming off two defeats in two matches, especially when you were considered one of the favourites,” Thiaw told reporters ahead of the must‑win game while hinting at possible changes to his starting line‑up.
“Now, we have to turn things around. That means me making tactical decisions, but also the players. We’re ready. We’re working hard. We’ll make the best choices.”
The Senegal coach said his players remain determined to rescue their World Cup campaign despite the difficult start.
“We’ll try to give everything to secure qualification. The players want to have a great World Cup. We perhaps didn’t expect to be in this situation, but that’s the reality today,” he said.
“We’re going to do everything we can to beat Iraq and keep hoping for qualification to the next round.”
“The defeat against Norway was painful, but it gives us even greater motivation to beat Iraq and qualify for the next round. Friday’s match is a final for both teams.”
“If we want to stay in this World Cup, we have to win. The team needs its supporters. We need them to push the players and secure this qualification.”
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