Senegal will be without first-choice goalkeeper Edouard Mendy for their must-win World Cup group stage match against Iraq on Friday evening. The 34-year-old former Chelsea stopper sustained a left knee injury during Senegal's 3-2 defeat to Norway on Monday, forcing him to be substituted in the 63rd minute.
Tests conducted this week confirmed that Mendy is unable to play in the crucial fixture. Senegal have lost both of their opening group matches, falling to France and Norway, leaving their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. A victory against Iraq could still see them advance as one of the best third-placed teams, but the task is now more challenging without their number one goalkeeper.
Senegal confirms injury details
The Senegalese Football Federation released a statement confirming the injury: 'The Senegalese Football Federation inform the public that goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has sustained an injury to his left knee during the match between Senegal and Norway on Monday. Following the initial medical examinations undertaken by the national team's medical staff, the player is declared to be unavailable for Senegal's next match.'
The statement added: 'The appropriate care as well as complementary medical examinations are currently being undertaken in order to evaluate with precision the nature of the injury and determine whether he will be able to participate further in the competition. The Senegalese Football Federation address to Edouard Mendy our wishes for his swift recovery and hope to see him soon on the pitch.'
Replacement steps in
Mory Diaw replaced Mendy against Norway and is expected to start in goal against Iraq. Senegal will need a convincing win to keep their World Cup dreams alive, as goal difference could be crucial in the race for the top eight third-placed spots.
