Iraq coach Arnold says team has 'nothing to lose' against Senegal at World Cup

BAGHDAD, Iraq — TORONTO — Iraq's national team head coach Graham Arnold said his side will take the field against Senegal with nothing to lose, speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday's 2026 World Cup fixture in Toronto. Arnold, who has led Iraq for eight months, said he sees strong discipline and high motivation within the squad. "We have nothing to lose. We will inspire our players to bring out their best," the Australian coach said, noting that two earlier group-stage defeats against Norway and France served as a learning process. He described Iraq's World Cup return after a 40-year absence as a historic moment for the country. Arnold added that his contract expires six weeks after the tournament ends, and that a decision on renewal will be made jointly with federation president Yunus Mahmud once the World Cup concludes. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw, speaking at the same press conference, described Iraq as a disciplined side capable of causing serious problems, particularly in attack. Iraq must win the match to keep its tournament hopes alive after two group defeats and will be without Aymen Hussein and Muhammad Ali.