Both Senegal and Iraq still stand a chance to qualify in the final match.
For Senegal, they have lost their opening two matches 3-1 against France and 3-2 against Norway. Meanwhile, the journey has not been any better for Iraq as they suffered a 4-1 defeat against Norway before losing 3-0 against France.
A convincing victory for either side will guarantee them qualification. Senegal will therefore need to beat Iraq in the final group fixture and hope results elsewhere go their way to keep their World Cup campaign alive.
Speaking ahead of the game, the Australian coach seemed determined to make things even more difficult for the Lions of Teranga.
Iraq have nothing to lose
“Tomorrow’s (Friday's) match against Senegal, the African champions, will be another enriching experience for us,” Arnold told reporters as quoted by Wiw Sports.
“We have nothing to lose, but everything to gain; the key is that the players are mentally prepared to take to the pitch and win. As I said, Senegal are the African champions.
"We need to approach the match with a positive mindset, giving our all from the first minute to the last. The key for me is to get the best out of each player individually as well as the team as a whole, while ensuring they are mentally prepared.
“We trained today and the lads showed an excellent attitude. It was one of their best sessions. They are motivated to go onto the pitch, not only for themselves, but also for their families and for the team spirit that unites us.”
On playing against Norway, France, and now Senegal, Arnold responded: “We had the privilege of playing against France and now Senegal; I sincerely believe this is probably the toughest group in the World Cup.
“It’s an honour to play against such players and share the pitch with them, because it can only help our players improve for the future.”
On whether a draw will be good enough for Iraq, he said: “I’ve always coached with the intention and expectation of winning every match. I adopt a winning mentality.
“I never send a team onto the pitch simply to try not to lose. It all comes down to a strong mindset. It's about the players believing in themselves, showing great energy, and staying focused on their own performance.
“We can only control our own actions; we can’t predict what the opponent will do until we're facing them on the pitch. The key is to send the players onto the field with that mindset and those ingredients to win the match.
“There’s never any question of a draw or a loss: only victory matters, that’s what’s most important.”
FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 World Cup is taking place from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament features 48 national teams and is played at 16 modern stadiums.
Match schedule and times | Group tables | How to watch the World Cup | World Cup Format | Past winners of the World Cup
Koulibaly fit and ready for Iraq
Despite his mistakes against Norway, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has confirmed the availability of defender and captain Kalidou Koulibaly against Iraq.
The former Chelsea defender was at fault for the opening goal as the Lions of Teranga went on to lose the game. Thiaw has defended the defender and confirmed he will start against Iraq.
“I prefer to talk about the team as a whole. We have a medical staff and a technical staff who monitor the players. Kalidou Koulibaly was fit to play these matches,” said Thiaw.
“But we know the intensity of a World Cup. It wasn’t easy at all. It was more difficult for the players who haven't had much playing time.
“He’s training well. He’s ready. He’s continuing his treatment to be fit for the match.”
Senegal will miss the services of injured goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The former Chelsea custodian picked up an injury during Senegal’s defeat against Norway.
Follow Senegal vs Iraq with Flashscore
