The Lions lead 1-0 thanks to Habib Diarra’s early goal, but their performance has been particularly disappointing especially since the Iraqis have been down to ten men since the 13th minute.
Dominating the game and showing more attacking initiative, the Lions of Teranga managed to take the lead before halftime, bringing them closer to a crucial result in the race for qualification.
On the other side, Iraq is trying to hold on but will need to step up its game after halftime if it hopes to tie the score.
As a reminder, Senegal must win by the widest possible margin to advance to the Round of 16.
For now, Senegal sits in 7th place among the best third-place finishers (the top 8 qualify), but their fate depends on five teams that have yet to play their final match.
The second half promises to be decisive for both teams.
