The report says Mory Diaw is expected to replace Mendy, handing him responsibility in a side that conceded three goals in its last outing. A goalkeeper change can unsettle defensive communication, particularly when the replacement has limited time to build rhythm with the back four.
Diaw’s priority will be simple: reduce uncertainty behind a defence already under scrutiny. Senegal cannot afford another slow start if Iraq are allowed to attack the spaces around the centre-backs.
A reported projection has Koulibaly starting alongside Moussa Niakhaté, with Krépin Diatta and El Hadji Malick Diouf at full-back. Mamadou Sarr and Abdoulaye Seck are the alternatives if Thiaw decides a defensive reset is necessary.
Keeping Koulibaly would underline the coach’s faith in experience rather than treating the Norway errors as an individual failure. The argument for change is equally clear: Senegal have already conceded three times, and fresher legs could provide greater security.
The report expects Lamine Camara, Idrissa Gueye and Papa Gueye to form a compact midfield trio. Their ability to cover ground and move the ball quickly will be crucial if Senegal are to protect Diaw and release the forwards earlier.
Sadio Mané is expected to start again, with Ismaïla Sarr carrying stronger momentum after his display against Norway. Nicolas Jackson could complete the front three.
The Iraq match will reveal whether continuity can repair Senegal’s defensive problems. Diaw’s handling and Koulibaly’s response will be the first storylines to watch.