Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has declared his side's 5-0 thrashing of Iraq fully merited, insisting his players managed a demanding group-stage clash with composure and quality.

The Teranga Lions secured the emphatic victory at the Toronto Stadium on Friday night, keeping their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout round hopes alive. Senegal could still advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams, though Thiaw acknowledged they must now wait on other results to go their way.

Goals that made the difference

Habib Diarra broke the deadlock in the 4th minute, converting after Abdoulaye Seck directed a corner kick towards goal. Iraq's task then grew significantly harder when Rebin Sulaka was shown a red card for denying Sadio Mane a clear goalscoring opportunity, leaving the Iraqis a man down before half-time.

Senegal capitalised ruthlessly in the second half. Pape Gueye netted a brace, while Ismaila Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye each added their names to the scoresheet to complete a commanding performance.

Thiaw reflects on a well-earned result

Speaking after the final whistle, Thiaw was measured but clearly satisfied with what his team had produced.