Senegal's World Cup defence falters ahead of crucial match with Iraq

Senegal have struggled defensively at the 2022 World Cup, conceding six goals in two group‑stage games. They lost 3‑1 to France, with defender Moussa Niakhaté unable to stop Kylian Mbappé’s opening strike, and were beaten 3‑2 by Norway, where mis‑positioning and errors allowed Erling Haaland to score twice. Niakhaté started both matches, forming part of a back‑line that has been criticised for collective lapses. With a final group match against Iraq looming, Senegal must tighten their defence if they hope to stay in the tournament.