Senegal handed blow as Edouard Mendy ruled out of final World Cup fixture vs Iraq

The 34-year-old Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli custodian played in the opening fixture against France which the Lions of Teranga lost 3-1. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw kept faith in the experienced Mendy and started him against Norway.

The former Chelsea goalkeeper produced great saves to deny Kristoffer Ajer and Martin Odegaard and keep Senegal in the game. However, after a mistake by defender Kalidou Koulibaly, Mendy was not able to deny Norway’s Erling Haaland.

With Senegal trailing, their night became even more difficult shortly after Norway’s third goal when Mendy had to leave the pitch through injury, and was replaced by Mory Diaw.

As announced by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) on Tuesday, Mendy will, therefore. be absent against the Iraqis, against whom the Lions of Teranga will try to win convincingly to have any hope of qualifying for the Round of 32.

Mendy will miss the Iraq game

“Following a left knee injury sustained during the match against Norway, Edouard Mendy will be unavailable for Senegal's next game,” read part of the statement from Senegal FA.

“Further medical examinations are underway to accurately assess the nature of his injury and determine his continued participation in the competition.”

The Lions of Teranga fear a lengthy absence for the former Rennes and Chelsea player. Mory Diaw, who came on as a substitute against Norway, will replace him against Iraq on Friday.

‘Time will be the best judge’

Meanwhile, Senegal forward Sadio Mane has remained confident that the West Africans will still qualify for the knockout stage despite losing their first two matches.

“We are all disappointed. We went onto the pitch wanting to win this match (against Norway). Unfortunately, the  football gods weren’t with us,” said the former Liverpool forward after the second consecutive defeat.

“Norway deserved their victory. As for us, we will try to regroup tonight and prepare well for the match against Iraq. I think we still have a good chance of qualifying.

“We still believe. We just need to regroup and keep working. Time will be the best judge.”

Senegal star Ismail Jakobs has defended Koulibaly after putting up a poor show against Norway. Jakobs defended him, refusing to single out any individual responsibility.

“Koulibaly is an important player for us. Everyone makes mistakes. In the end, it's the team that loses, not just one person. I think he's experienced enough to hold his head high,” Jakobs.

“As a team, it’s not one person’s fault, it’s the whole team’s fault.

“We have a lot of experienced players and young players. We have a good mix. We fought hard to get here. We waited a long time too. We’re going to give our best so things don't end like this.”

Senegal will now shift focus to their must-win final Group I fixture against Iraq on June 26th at Toronto Stadium.