Sulaka (R) was sent off for denying Senegal a goal-scoring opportunity. | Photo Credit: AFP

Iraq defender Rebin Sulaka was sent off in the 13th minute of the match against Senegal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday.

Senegal forward Sadio Mane got the ball in the final third and turned towards goal when the Iraqi defender tugged at his shirt.

The referee, Anthony Taylor, checked with the Video Assistant Referee and came to the conclusion that the defender had denied a clear goal-scoring chance.

This was the ninth red card of the tournament, and the sixth one for a player denying a clear opportunity at goal.

The decision further pushed Iraq into a corner after it conceded a goal in just the fourth minute. A big win on Friday will allow Senegal to stay in contention for the knockouts.

Published on Jun 27, 2026