Senegal took a major step toward the Round of 32 with a dominant 5-0 win over Iraq in Toronto, delivering one of their strongest performances of the tournament so far.

The Lions of Teranga made the perfect start, going ahead after just four minutes through Habib Diarra. The early goal immediately gave Senegal control, and Iraq’s task became even more difficult in the 13th minute when Rebin Sulaka was sent off. From that point, Senegal were able to dictate the tempo and keep Iraq under constant pressure.

Although the score remained 1-0 at half-time, Senegal raised their level after the break and completely took the match away from Iraq. Ismaïla Sarr doubled the lead in the 56th minute, and only three minutes later Pape Gueye added a third goal to put Senegal in full command.

Gueye continued his excellent display by scoring again in the 71st minute, making it 4-0 and underlining Senegal’s dominance. Iliman Ndiaye then added the fifth in the 82nd minute, capping off an emphatic victory and a memorable night for the African side.

This result gives Senegal a huge boost in their push for the knockout stage and puts them firmly on course to reach the Round of 32. Their attacking movement, energy, and clinical finishing were too much for Iraq, especially after the early red card shifted the balance of the game.

For Iraq, it was a difficult evening from the moment they went down to 10 men. They struggled to contain Senegal’s pace and quality, and the pressure eventually turned into a heavy defeat.

Senegal will now take real confidence from this performance as they move closer to the next round, knowing they have shown both their attacking power and their ability to control a big World Cup match.