Iraq has been drawn in a difficult group

The two teams face each other in the third round of the World Cup group stage

Following the stripping of Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations title, the Senegalese Football Federation and several players have expressed their outrage at CAF’s decision. Sadio Mané also spoke out strongly.

Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has provided clarity on the absence of his two biggest stars following his side's comprehensive 5-0 victory over Al Khaleej. Despite the dominant performance, questions loomed regarding the fitness of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, neither of whom featured in the matchday squad as they deal with minor fitness concerns.

Mamadou Niang has disclosed the crucial conversation he had with Sadio Mane that prevented the Africa Cup of Nations final from descending into chaos. The former Marseille striker intervened as the Lions of Teranga walked off the pitch in protest at a late penalty decision, urging his compatriot to ensure the team finished the game "like men" before their eventual dramatic victory.

Sadio Mane was given a hero's welcome by his Al-Nassr teammates following Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations success. Mane captained the Lions of Teranga to a second AFCON triumph in their history in Morocco last weekend as Senegal claimed a drama-filled 1-0 win over the tournament hosts courtesy of Pape Gueye's extra-time winner in Rabat.