I. Sarr
Crystal Palace · Coupe de la Ligue · Attacker · #7 · Senegal · 27 yrs
I. Sarr news
Messi and Mbappé still in the Golden Boot race: How the 2026 World Cup top scorers battle stands before the final
The Golden Boot race still has Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé tied. The match that will determine the 2026 World Cup champions is the biggest event left in the tournament, but there is also an individual battle to follow as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé compete for the Golden Boot, awarded to the competition’s top scorer. The race has been one of the tournament’s main storylines since the opening match, with both players leading their teams deep into the competition. They are not alone in the race, as Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham remain close behind, but Messi and Mbappé currently sit at the top of the standings. After seven matches each, Messi and Mbappé are tied with eight goals, with one game remaining for both players. Even if Mbappé can no longer win the World Cup after France’s semifinal loss to Spain, the third-place match against England gives him one final opportunity to add to his total. Golden Boot table RankPlayerTeamGoals1Lionel MessiArgentina81Kylian MbappéFrance83Erling HaalandNorway74Harry KaneEngland64Jude BellinghamEngland66Ousmane DembéléFrance56Mikel OyarzabalSpain58Vinícius JúniorBrazil48Ismaïla SarrSenegal48Julián QuiñonesMexico411Deniz UndavGermany311Johan ManzambiSwitzerland311Romelu LukakuBelgium311Cody GakpoNetherlands311Folarin BalogunUSA3
Who, when and where will Belgium play in the Round of 16?
Belgium defeated Senegal in a thriller to claim a 3-2 victory and secure their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash between Belgium and Senegal turned into one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament so far, with the Red Devils completing a stunning 3-2 comeback at Seattle Stadium to book their place in the next round. Senegal took control early, breaking the deadlock in the 24th minute when Habib Diarra pounced on a rebound after Ismaila Sarr rattled the crossbar with a header. The Lions of Teranga doubled their lead in the second half, with Sarr himself finishing off a sprint past three defenders after a long ball from Moussa Niakhate. Belgium looked to be heading for an early exit, but substitute Romelu Lukaku pulled one back late to make it 2-1. The Red Devils then completed the turnaround deep into stoppage time, when Youri Tielemans scored from a header to level the score at 2-2 and send the match to extra time. However, just as the match appeared to be heading toward a penalty shootout, the referee pointed to the spot for Belgium late in the game, and Youri Tielemans made no mistake, sealing the win and sending his team through. WHAT A COMEBACK! 😍 #BELSEN #ScoredWithING pic.twitter.com/95tMhibciF— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) July 1, 2026 With this crucial win, Rudi Garcia’s men keep alive their campaign to surpass Belgium’s best-ever World Cup showing, the third-place finish they achieved back in 2018. Belgium’s Round of 16 rival and venue Belgium will stay in Seattle for their Round of 16 match, facing the winner of the USMNT and Bosnia and Herzegovina, who meet in their own Round of 32 tie. The co-hosts are the ones being favored to win the game, setting up what would be a great matchup between Kevin De Bruyne and Christian Pulisic. For Senegal, the result brings a heartbreaking end to a tournament that once again showed flashes of the spirit that carried them to the quarterfinals back in 2002, but ultimately fell just short at the hands of a Belgian side that refused to go down without a fight.
Is Jeremy Doku playing? Belgium vs Senegal confirmed lineups for the 2026 World Cup game
With Belgium clashing for a ticket to the Round of 16 against Senegal, questions rose over the presence of Jeremy Doku in the heated World Cup game. Belgium and Senegal are set to collide on Wednesday, July 1st, in a high-stakes Round of 32 clash at the 2026 World Cup at Seattle Stadium. After the young winger temporarily stepped away from the national team camp, fans have been buzzing with questions regarding whether Jeremy Doku would return straight to the starting lineup for the Red Devils. Doku has officially been named to the starting XI to face Senegal in this crucial knockout match. After briefly leaving the team’s base camp to attend the birth of his son (which caused him to miss the group-stage match against Iran), the Manchester City winger made a seamless return to action against New Zealand and is now in peak physical condition to anchor the attack against the African powerhouse. Belgium enters the knockout rounds after snapping a frustrating streak of three consecutive World Cup draws (dating back to a scoreless stalemate with Croatia in 2022) by securing a dominant 5-1 blowout over New Zealand. By locking up the top spot in Group G with five points, the Red Devils are now desperate to erase a recent winless funk against African opposition, having previously fallen to Morocco 2-0 and settling for a 1-1 draw against Egypt earlier in this tournament. On the other side of the pitch, Senegal scraped into the knockout bracket by securing the final wild-card spot among the top third-place finishers, surviving the group phase with just three points. After opening their campaign with highly competitive 3-1 and 3-2 losses to France and Norway respectively, a resounding 5-0 clinical destruction of Iraq threw a much-needed lifeline to the Lions of Teranga, who are making the most of their fourth World Cup appearance in national history. Ben Old of New Zealand competes for the ball with Jeremy Doku of Belgium. A historic, first-ever meeting between two powerhouse nations Despite both programs consistently ranking among the top 20 nations in the world over the last decade, Belgium and Senegal have remarkably never crossed paths on the soccer pitch, not even in an international friendly. This means that tonight’s high-stakes Round of 32 battle will mark the first time these two teams have ever shared a field, opening up a brand-new head-to-head chapter on the sport’s grandest stage. Confirmed lineups for Belgium and Senegal Belgium’s confirmed lineups (4-3-3): Thibaut Courtois; Timothy Castagne, Brandon Mechele, Arthur Theate, Maxim De Cuyper; Hans Vanaken, Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans; Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku.Head coach: Rudi Garcia. Senegal’s confirmed lineups (4-2-3-1): Mory Diaw; Krepin Diatta, Pathe Ciss, Moussa Niakhate, Ismail Jakobs; Idrissa Gana Gueye, Habib Diarra, Pape Gueye; Iliman Ndiaye,Ismaila Sarr, Sadio Mane.Head coach: Pape Thiaw.
What is Senegal’s current FIFA ranking ahead of its 2026 World Cup match vs Belgium?
Despite losing their first two matches, Senegal secured their place in the Round of 32 after defeating Iraq. However, they have dropped a few places in the FIFA Men's World Ranking ahead of their 2026 World Cup match against Belgium. After emerging as one of Africa’s strongest national teams, Senegal entered the 2026 World Cup as one of the dark horses. However, they lost their first two matches, putting their place in the knockout stage at risk. With their defeat to Iraq, they secured their place in the Round of 32. Due to their disappointing performances, they have dropped a few places in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking ahead of facing Belgium. According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Senegal are ranked 18th place with 1653.43 points. They have lost three positions in the ranking due to their loss to France and Norway. However, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 99th position in June 2013. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 12th in January of 2026. Even though Senegal have improved significantly in recent years, they still remain a considerable distance behind Belgium in the rankings. Rudi Garcia’s team are ranked 10th with 1,735.41 points. However, they are not at their best at the moment and could struggle to defeat Pape Thiaw’s team, who have a squad full of stars. To do so, Senegal need to improve their finishing in front of goal. Led by Sadio Mané, Senegal have established as one of the best national teams. Head coach Pape Thiaw relies on a dominant style of play, looking to break quickly on the counterattack through Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, or Ismaïla Sarr. However, they also have plenty of quality to build up play in midfield. Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye are able to press high and possess excellent vision, endangering Belgium’s chances. Sadio Mane of Senegal. Sadio Mané has a golden opportunity to silence the skeptics in Senegal Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Senegal have disappointed their supporters, as they were defeated by France and Norway in the group stage. Although they impressed against Iraq, fans now have serious doubts about whether they can beat a strong team like Belgium and reach the Round of 16. Because of this, Sadio Mané has a great opportunity to shine once again by leading his team to become a top contender once more. Unlike France or Norway, Belgium have not been a brilliant attacking team. Although they have defensive solidity, they have struggled to be dominant in front of goal, missing several big chances. Because of this, Senegal could have a significant advantage, as Sadio Mané is in excellent form to lead the team’s goalscoring efforts, having yet to score in the tournament. If he manages to do so, he would further enhance his historic legacy.
World Cup 2026 Golden Boot table: Lionel Messi leads top scorers standings after group stage
After the group stage matches of the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot table of top scorers. While lifting the trophy is every team’s main objective, there are also individual awards to compete for, including the World Cup 2026 Golden Boot. After the conclusion of the group stage, Lionel Messi leads the scoring standings. Messi has scored six goals for Argentina. He began the tournament with a historic hat trick against Algeria, becoming the oldest player to score three goals in a World Cup match, before adding two more against Austria. Close behind him are several of the tournament’s biggest stars with four goals each, including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vinícius Júnior and Erling Haaland, who all helped France, Brazil and Norway reach the knockout stage. Golden Boot standings RankPlayerTeamGoals1Lionel MessiArgentina62Kylian MbappéFrance43Vinícius JúniorBrazil44Ousmane DembéléFrance45Erling HaalandNorway46Harry KaneEngland37Elijah JustNew Zealand38Ismaïla SarrSenegal39Ismael SaibariMorocco310Jonathan DavidCanada311Matheus CunhaBrazil312Brian BrobbeyNetherlands313Johan ManzambiSwitzerland314Deniz UndavGermany315Cristiano RonaldoPortugal2 Lamine Yamal’s position Lamine Yamal is not among the tournament’s leading scorers, having scored one goal during the group stage after returning from injury. The winger found the net in Spain’s 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.
Senegal salvage hopes of World Cup last-32 place with rout of 10-man Iraq
The substitute Pape Gueye scored a pair of sensational second-half goals from long range as Senegal got a much-needed boost to their goal difference with a 5-0 victory over 10-man Iraq in their Group I finale.Ismaïla Sarr added his third goal of the tournament, the first of four after half-time for the Lions of Teranga, who sealed a third-place group finish and are vying for one of the eight third-place spots in the last 32. Continue reading...
How to watch Senegal vs Iraq in USA: 2026 World Cup, Live Stream, TV & Preview
Senegal will face off gainst Iraq in Matchday 3 of the FIFA World Cup group stage. Here’s everything you need to know to watch this exciting clash live in the United States. Here are all of the details of where you can watch Senegal vs Iraq on US television and via legal streaming: WHO Senegal vs Iraq WHAT 2026 World Cup WHEN 3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT • Friday, June 26, 2026 WHERE Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling, Peacock Premium, FS1, Telemundo and Hulu + Live TV STREAM WATCH NOW Match Overview Senegal enters this final group stage match with zero points, but their record doesn’t tell the whole story. The Lions of Teranga delivered competitive performances against both France and Norway, proving their attacking capabilities. Now, with their tournament lives on the line, the objective is clear: secure a dominant victory against Iraq to have any hope of advancing to the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams. The urgency is immense, and Senegal will be expected to play with relentless offensive pressure from the opening whistle. Iraq also sits on zero points and faces a monumental task to keep their campaign alive. After conceding seven goals across their first two games, their -6 goal difference makes qualification a near-mathematical impossibility. For them, this match is about restoring pride and attempting to claim a historic first-ever point or win in the competition. While both sides are desperate for a victory, the stakes are significantly higher for a talented Senegalese squad with a realistic path to the Round of 32. Tactical Analysis & Match Context The trajectories of these two nations in the tournament could not be more different. Senegal has looked like a competent and dangerous side placed in an incredibly difficult group. Despite the losses, they have generated significant scoring chances and shown they can compete with top-tier opposition. In contrast, Iraq has appeared outmatched, struggling to contain opponents defensively and creating very little in the attack, as evidenced by their low expected goals (xG) figures in their first two matches. This tactical clash is expected to be one-sided. Senegal will almost certainly dominate possession and territory, looking to press high and create turnovers in dangerous areas. Their game plan will revolve around leveraging the speed and skill of attackers like Sadio Mané and Ismaila Sarr against Iraq‘s vulnerable backline, which ranks among the worst in the tournament based on expected goals against (xGA). Iraq will likely be forced to defend in a deep, compact low block, hoping to frustrate Senegal and perhaps find a rare opportunity on the counter-attack. Motivation will be a key factor. For Senegal, the goal is not just to win, but to win convincingly to overturn their negative goal difference. This necessity will drive their attacking intent for the full 90 minutes. For Iraq, the primary motivation is to avoid another heavy defeat and exit the tournament with a respectable performance. While they are mathematically still in it, the severe goal difference deficit means their realistic ambitions are limited to playing the role of spoiler. Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends This match marks a historic first-ever meeting between Senegal and Iraq. The two nations have never faced each other in an official competition or even a friendly, adding a layer of unpredictability to this crucial group stage finale. With no past results to draw from, recent tournament form and performance against similar opponents become the most reliable indicators. While this is their first encounter with Iraq, Senegal has a positive record against Asian teams in this competition. They are undefeated in two previous matchups, securing a draw and a victory, the most recent being a 3-1 win over hosts Qatar in 2022. Conversely, this will be Iraq’s first-ever game against an African (CAF) nation at the tournament, presenting a new type of challenge for their squad. Recent trends strongly su
World Cup 2026: Haaland strikes twice as Norway secure knockout progression
Norway survived a Senegal onslaught to claim a crucial 3-2 victory in Group I, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to secure their qualification to advance to the knockout stage. The Africans fought back from 2-0 down with a goal from Ismaila Sarr before mounting a desperate late assault, but Norway held firm.
What is Senegal’s current FIFA ranking ahead of its 2026 World Cup match vs Norway?
Senegal transformed into one of the best African national teams. Under head coach Pape Thiaw, they have managed to play their third consecutive World Cup. After their latest loss to France, they maintain a very good position in the FIFA World Ranking before facing Norway. Even though they are not one of the traditional World Cup teams, Senegal have managed to establish as one of the most consistent sides in recent editions of the tournament, securing their third consecutive appearance. Although they were defeated by France, they showed strong competitiveness, fighting for victory throughout the match. In addition, they maintain a strong position in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking before facing Norway. Ahead of today’s clash, Senegal are ranked 17th spot with 1,667.66 points, as per FIFA Men’s World Ranking. With their latest defeat to France, they lost two spots. With head coach Pape Thiaw have managed to significantly improve their international standing, compared to their 99th spot from June of 2013. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 12th on January of 2026. Despite their impressive impact in the African Cup of Nations, Senegal remain the second lowest-ranked national team in their group. France currently hold the 2nd spot with 1887.11 points. Norway are ranked 27th with 1,577.18 points. Finally, Iraq remain the lowest-ranked national team in the group, holding the 60th spot with 1426.53 points. Senegal remain the best African team, winning the African Cup of Nations on penalties, which was later awarded to Morocco by federation decision. Beyond Sadio Mané, they also rely on players such as Nicolas Jackson, Ismaïla Sarr, Krépin Diatta, and Ibrahim Mbaye, who can make the difference. In addition, they could opt for possession-based dominance, something they have refined over the last few years. Sadio Mane of Senegal Senegal may need Sadio Mané’s best version vs Norway Despite Norway having a highly promising sporting project, Senegal enter the match as clear favorites to secure the victory. By imposing a dominant playing style, they could press high and shut down the opponent’s attack. To achieve this, they may need the impact of Sadio Mané, their biggest star. Although he performed well in a collective sense against France, the veteran forward needs to lead the attacking phase. Facing a solid defensive block, Senegal could require the dribbling version of Sadio Mané. With his impact and tactical intelligence, he could be key to drawing defenders and breaking through the opposition’s defence. Alongside this, he could also be decisive from long-range shots, looking for goals against a low block. In addition, he could help elevate Nicolas Jackson, who failed to score in his first match. Finally, Ibrahim Mbaye could start, after his strong impact against France.
Is Kylian Mbappe playing? France vs Senegal confirmed lineups for the 2026 World Cup Group I match
After the first surprises in the 2026 World Cup, France face Senegal in their debut in the competition. For this reason, fans are keeping an eye con Kylian Mbappé status ahead of today’s Group I clash. France emerge as one of the best national teams in the world. With a promising roster, they are viewed as top contenders for the 2026 World Cup. In their debut in the competition, they face Senegal, looking for a victory to take the lead in Group I. As one of the best African teams, Pape Thiaw’s team could pose them major problems. For that reason, fans are keeping a close eye on Kylian Mbappé’s status, as he could be the difference-maker. Kylian Mbappé will start for France, as he arrives in excellent physical condition. As a central figure in Didier Deschamps’ team, he is once again expected to shine as a goalscorer, being the tournament’s top scorer. In addition, he has already promised a greater defensive effort, as he aims to enhance the collective play. For this reason, he is expected to be one of the best players in the 2026 World Cup. Coupled with Mbappé, head coach Didier Deschamps will bet on Ousmane Dembélé, Desiré Doué and, Michael Olise. Nonetheless, France main challenge may be the defense line as Senegal shine with an impressive offense with speed counterattacks. In light of this, they may decided to pick Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot in the double midfield line. Then, Dayot Upamecano and William Salida will shine in the defense line. Looking for a decisive victory, Senegal will also adopt an attacking setup led by Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson. Nonetheless, head coach Pape Thiaw will rely on Idrissa Gueye to provide solidity in midfield. To prevent Kylian Mbappé from scoring, they will turn to Kalidou Koulibaly and Moussa Niakhaté in central defense, while Edouard Mendy will start in goal. Desire Doue of France celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates. France confirmed lineup vs Senegal France will shine with a brilliant offense, chasing Mbappé and Dembélé scoring form. Nonetheless, they may struggle with Senegal’s speed offense, making a solid midfield and defense a key asset. In light of this, head coach Didier Deschamps has decided to trust on Aurelien Tchouameni as his physicality could help to stop Sadio Mane’s counterattacks. With this in mind, France will lineup as follows: Mike Maignan; Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernandez; Aurelien Tchouameni, Adrien Rabiot; Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Desiré Doué; Kylian Mbappé. Senegal confirmed lineup vs France Senegal arrive at the 2026 World Cup as underdogs. While they are one of Africa’s top sides, they are often underestimated despite their defensive solidity and dangerous counterattacking style. Head coach Pape Thiaw will rely on Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson as his main attacking threats. However, Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gana Gueye will play key roles, providing leadership and stability throughout the team. Considering this, Senegal will play as follows: Edouard Mendy; Krepin Diatta, Kalidou Koulibaly, Moussa Niakhate, Malick Diouf; Idrissa Gueye, Lamine Camara, Pape Gueye; Ismaila Sarr, Nicolas Jackson, Sadio Mané.
How to watch Crystal Palace vs Rayo Vallecano in USA: 2026 Conference League, Live Stream, TV & Preview
Crystal Palace will face off against Rayo Vallecano in the 2025/2026 Conference League final. Here’s how fans in the USA can watch the game live. Here are all of the details of where you can watch Crystal Palace vs Rayo Vallecano on US television and via legal streaming: WHO Crystal Palace vs Rayo Vallecano WHAT UEFA Conference League WHEN 3pm ET / Noon PT • Wednesday, May 27, 2025 WHERE Paramount+, Fubo, DirecTV Stream, CBS Sports Network, TUDN, Hulu + Live TV and ViX STREAM WATCH NOW Match Overview Crystal Palace stands on the brink of history, entering their first-ever European final. Manager Oliver Glasner has prioritized this competition, sacrificing domestic form for a shot at continental glory. With a proven track record of winning European trophies, Glasner aims to deliver a historic title to Selhurst Park in what is expected to be his final season, cementing his legacy with the club. Rayo Vallecano arrives in Leipzig with tremendous momentum, riding a nine-game unbeaten streak across all competitions. After narrowly missing out on a European spot with an eighth-place finish in La Liga, this final represents their only path to the Europa League next season. For a club seeking its first-ever major trophy, the stakes could not be higher, and they are poised to be a highly competitive opponent. Tactical Analysis & Match Context The season trajectories of these two clubs present a study in contrasts. Crystal Palace endured a disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League, marked by a seven-game winless streak to end the season as they focused entirely on their European campaign. In contrast, Rayo Vallecano had a strong domestic season, finishing just one point shy of European qualification and entering this final in peak form. The tactical battle will likely pit Crystal Palace‘s devastating counter-attack against Rayo Vallecano‘s possession-based style. The Eagles will look to absorb pressure and unleash the pace of Ismaïla Sarr and the physical presence of Jean-Philippe Mateta in transition. Rayo, meanwhile, will aim to control the tempo through their midfield, press high, and use their clinical finishing to break down Palace‘s organized defense. For both clubs, this match is a winner-take-all scenario. The victor not only claims a historic first European trophy but also secures a coveted spot in next season’s Europa League. For the loser, the season ends in heartbreak with no European football to look forward to. The immense pressure and high stakes will define every moment of this final. Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends This final marks the first-ever official meeting between Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano, adding an element of unpredictability to the occasion. Historically, Spanish clubs have dominated European finals against English opposition, winning nine consecutive encounters between 2006 and 2022. This trend gives a psychological edge to the La Liga side. However, that long-standing Spanish dominance was broken in last season’s Conference League final when Chelsea defeated Real Betis. Crystal Palace will be determined to build on that result and start a new trend for Premier League clubs. This match represents a fresh chapter in the storied rivalry between English and Spanish football on the continental stage. Statistically, Crystal Palace has been a first-half powerhouse in this competition, scoring 16 goals and conceding just two before halftime across their 16 matches. Rayo Vallecano has also been potent, scoring 27 goals in 14 games. Both teams have shown a tendency for physical play, with each side receiving over 1.5 cards in nine of their Conference League matches this season, suggesting a hard-fought contest is likely. Squad News & Projected Lineups Both managers face significant lineup decisions due to key injuries ahead of this historic final. Crystal Palace will be without several players, most notably defender Chris Richards, whose ankle injury forces a change in the back three. Borna So
Crystal Palace v Arsenal: Key stats and talking points
Palace head coach Oliver Glasner may elect to ring the changes ahead of their Conference League decider against Rayo Vallecano next Wednesday. The Eagles are winless in their past six league games, although their safety has been guaranteed for a couple of weeks now, allowing them to look forward to the trip to Leipzig, where they will aim to lift European silverware for the first time in the club's history. Ismaila Sarr, who has been named in Senegal's World Cup squad, has scored eight goals in his last eight starts for Palace in all competitions, netting in each of his last four, including both legs of the Conference League semi-final against Shakhtar Donetsk.