Senegal wrapped up their FIFA World Cup group stage with an impressive 5-0 win over Iraq on Friday, becoming first African side to register five goals in a World Cup game.
The victory also gave Senegal a better opportunity to qualify as one of the top third-placed teams to advance to the last 32 of the tournament.
Senegal was very efficient and got the lead in the first few minutes. It came after Habib Diarra scored the goal from a corner after receiving a pass from Abdoulaye Seck.
A few moments later, Iraq’s hopes were dashed as defender Rebin Sulaka was sent off.
He was again shown a red card after the video replay for bringing down Sadio Mane. Iraq were to play with 10 men for the remainder of the game.
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Senegal were in control but only had a 1-0 lead at the end of first half. Iraq also had to change their goalkeeper, Ahmed Basil, during the break due to injury.
The second half belonged to Senegal who soon scored again. Iraqi carelessness gave Senegal the ball in the 56th minute and they doubled up in the lead.
Once Pape Gueye got the stage, he scored twice after replacing the injured.
He scored his first goal less than two minutes after coming onto the field with a powerful long-range shot.
He added another amazing strike and scored another goal.
Another goal was scored by Iliman Ndiaye which solidified the lead of Senegal.
Iraq’s heavy loss concluded their disappointing World Cup campaign without securing a single point while Senegal’s memorable and historic win kept their hopes alive for a World Cup knockout stage berth.
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