Senegal first-choice goalkeeper Édouard Mendy will miss the Teranga Lions’ World Cup Group I decider with Iraq on Friday, Yankee Scores reports.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper suffered an injury in Monday’s defeat by Norway.
Senegal lost 3-2 in their second group game at MetLife Stadium and an injury to Mendy in the second half added injury to insult.
In that game, the goalkeeper was replaced by Mory Diaw in the 63rd minute and tests on Tuesday confirmed the 34-year-old will miss Senegal’s group decider against Iraq in Toronto.
Injury Confirmation
Senegal made the official confirmation on their X handle.
“Following a left knee injury sustained during the match against Norway, Edouard Mendy will be unavailable for Senegal’s next game.
Further medical examinations are underway to precisely assess the nature of his injury and determine the course of his participation in the competition.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Edouard”
Suite à une blessure au genou gauche contractée lors de la rencontre face à la Norvège, Edouard Mendy sera indisponible pour le prochain match du Sénégal.
Des examens médicaux complémentaires sont en cours afin d’évaluer avec précision la nature de sa blessure et de déterminer… pic.twitter.com/AEJl6eUbNx
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) June 24, 2026
Senegal skipper Kalidou Koulibaly told ESPN that Mendy had suspected medial ligament damage in the aftermath of Monday’s 3-2 defeat.
Point Permutations
Senegal have conceded six goals in their two group matches so far – against France and Norway – but Mendy has made crucial saves in both games to at least keep the Lions within touching distance of their opponents.
He denied Kristoffer Ajer from close range in the opening moments of the game in New Jersey before pulling off an excellent save to deny Martin Odegaard in a one-on-one situation later on in the Norway game.
Senegal now walk a tightrope to reach the round of 32. With zero points and a minus three goal difference, the last group game against Iraq in Toronto is a must-win for the Teranga Lions. Maximum points and an improvement in their goal difference may be enough to progress to the knockout stage.
