World Cup 2026: We’ll Give Everything To Secure Qualification –Thiaw Speaks Ahead Senegal Vs Iraq

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has disclosed that his team will not underestimate Iraq as they head into their decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match in Toronto.

Following back-to-back defeats to France and Norway, Thiaw has labeled the match a final, noting that the team must win to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.

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“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 making changes to his starting XI.

“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.”

Thiaw continued: “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.

“We’re going to do everything we can to beat Iraq and keep hoping for qualification to the next round.

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“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.”