World Cup 2026: Senegal in 4-2-3-1 with Sadio Mané against Iraq’s 4-1-4-1

Senegal, under head coach Bouna Thiaw Pape, line up in a 4-2-3-1, a system built on a balance between defensive solidity and attacking creativity. The team is looking to respond after two defeats against Norway (2-3) and France. Iraq, coached by Graham Arnold, adopt a 4-1-4-1 formation, favouring a compact midfield in an attempt to stem Senegal’s attacks while building moves through their advanced midfielders and lone striker.

Senegal’s line-up features several well-known key players. In defence, Moussa Niakhaté and Abdoulaye Seck form the central pairing, supported by Krépin Diatta and Ismail Jakobs on the flanks. The midfield is built around Idrissa Gana Gueye and Habib Diarra, providing a double pivot to control play. In attack, the attacking trio of Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Lamine Camara supports lone striker Ismaïla Sarr, who is tasked with finishing moves. The absence of Édouard Mendy, injured in the knee, forces the team to start goalkeeper Mory Diaw.

For Iraq, the back four consists of Frans Putros, Akam Hashem, Rebin Sulaka and Merchas Doski. The midfield is structured around Amir Al-Ammari, positioned as the holding player in front of the defence. Ali Jasim, Ibrahim Bayesh, Zidane Iqbal and Ahmed Qasem operate in an advanced line, supporting striker Ali Al-Hamadi up front. This collective unit is seeking to combine defensive discipline with quick use of counterattacks.

Reading Senegal’s XI

Senegal are banking on a flexible 4-2-3-1 with Bouna Thiaw Pape in charge. This system allows the midfield to be firmly anchored by Idrissa Gana Gueye and Habib Diarra, two ball-winners capable of ensuring the transition between defence and attack. The attacking line relies on the experience and pace of Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr, supported by Lamine Camara in a more creative role. Moussa Niakhaté and Abdoulaye Seck at the back provide a solid defensive base, despite the absence of captain and goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, who is replaced by Mory Diaw. The presence of Krépin Diatta and Ismail Jakobs on the sides should allow overlaps and openings on the wings.

Reading Iraq’s XI

Under Graham Arnold, Iraq opt for a compact 4-1-4-1, with Amir Al-Ammari as the defensive anchor to protect a four-player back line. This set-up is designed to reduce space and respond to Senegal’s attacking pressure. The four-man midfield, made up of Ali Jasim, Ibrahim Bayesh, Zidane Iqbal and Ahmed Qasem, will be tasked with driving play and quickly restarting moves forward. Ali Al-Hamadi, the lone striker, will need to make the most of long balls and gaps in the opposing defence to create chances. This organisation reflects Iraqi pragmatism in search of a positive result in a difficult group.