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Senegal First African to Net Five, Beats Iraq 5-0

6/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Senegal became the first African nation to score five goals in a World Cup match, beating Iraq 5-0 at BMO Field, Toronto, June 26, 2026.
Rebin Sulaka was shown a red card in 13th minute after VAR said he pulled down Sadio Mane.
Senegal finished third in Group I with three points and a +2 goal differential, awaiting group results to see if it ranks among the eight best third-placed teams.

History

Historical Context

Senegal’s 5-0 triumph over Iraq on 26 June 2026, the largest World Cup win by an African side, builds on the nation’s breakthrough 2002 upset of defending champions France—the first African knockout-stage victory. Successes such as the 2021 Africa Cup win have spurred calls for FIFA to raise Africa’s World Cup slots from five to six.

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Story summary

Senegal became the first African nation to score five goals in a World Cup match, beating Iraq 5-0 at BMO Field, Toronto, June 26, 2026.
Rebin Sulaka was shown a red card in 13th minute after VAR said he pulled down Sadio Mane.
Senegal finished third in Group I with three points and a +2 goal differential, awaiting group results to see if it ranks among the eight best third-placed teams.

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