Iraq face Senegal at BMO Field in Toronto on Friday 26 June 2026 in the final Group I match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Senegal are expected to challenge France for top spot while Iraq play their third match at a first World Cup appearance since 1986.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the men’s world championship, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026. For the first time, the tournament features 48 teams in 12 groups of four. The top two from each group plus the best eight third-placed teams advance to a new round of 32, followed by the round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
When is Iraq vs Senegal?
The match kicks off on Friday 26 June 2026 at 4:00pm ET (9:00pm BST). France vs Norway runs simultaneously at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.
Where is Iraq vs Senegal?
BMO Field in Toronto, Canada hosts the fixture. The home of MLS side Toronto FC has been temporarily expanded to around 45,000 for the World Cup and is one of two Canadian venues alongside BC Place in Vancouver. It sits on the shores of Lake Ontario near downtown Toronto.
Key Contenders
Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986 after a spirited AFC qualifying campaign under head coach Graham Arnold. The Lions of Mesopotamia are built around goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, captain Ali Adnan and forwards Aymen Hussein and Mohanad Ali. Iraq will target a historic first World Cup knockout stage appearance.
Senegal arrive as one of Africa’s leading sides. Coached by Pape Thiaw, the Lions of Teranga feature goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson and Crystal Palace captain Ismaila Sarr. Senegal reached the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup and will aim to go further this time, with a draw here likely enough to progress.
How to Watch
In the UK, BBC and ITV share live coverage. In the US, Fox and Telemundo broadcast in English and Spanish. Canadian audiences can watch on CTV, TSN and RDS. In the Middle East and North Africa, beIN Sports holds rights, while SuperSport and New World TV cover sub-Saharan Africa.
History and Records
Iraq and Senegal have met only once at senior international level, a 2019 friendly that ended 1-1. They have never met at a World Cup. Iraq’s only previous World Cup appearance came in 1986 in Mexico, where they lost all three group matches. Senegal reached the quarter-finals on debut in 2002.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold through FIFA.com. BMO Field group-stage tickets started at around CAD 120 for category three. Hospitality packages are available via FIFA’s official hospitality partner, and resale is handled on the official FIFA resale platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Iraq vs Senegal start?
Friday 26 June 2026 at 4:00pm ET (9:00pm BST).
Where is Iraq vs Senegal being held?
BMO Field, Toronto, Canada.
How can I watch Iraq vs Senegal?
BBC or ITV in the UK, Fox or Telemundo in the US, CTV and TSN in Canada.
Is this Iraq’s first World Cup since 1986?
Yes. 2026 is Iraq’s first FIFA men’s World Cup appearance in 40 years.