Mendy will miss Senegal's World Cup decider through injury

Senegal suffered a major loss ahead of their crucial Group I World Cup group stage match. The team's main goalkeeper Edouard Mendy will not play against Iraq on Friday due to an injury he sustained during . The incident happened in the second half of the match at MetLife Stadium. In the 63rd minute, 34-year-old Mendy was forced to replace Mori Diaw. Medical tests conducted on Tuesday finally confirmed that the experienced goalkeeper will not be able to take the field in Toronto. The Senegalese Football Federation issued an official statement regarding the situation: "After the initial medical examinations carried out by the medical staff of the national team, the player will not be able to play in the next match. Appropriate care is currently being carried out, as well as additional medical examinations to accurately assess the nature of the injury and determine whether he will be able to continue participating in the competition," the statement said. National team captain Kalidou Koulibaly shared the details, noting that Mendy is suspected of medial ligament damage. He also emphasized that this event affected the team's morale: "It hurt us and I think it affected the players psychologically. I hope it's nothing too serious because we really need him." Although Senegal conceded six goals in the first two rounds (against France and Norway), it was Mendy's performance that allowed the team to keep the chances of a positive result. In the game against the Norwegians, he made brilliant saves from shots from Kristoffer Ayer and Martin Edegaard, but was unable to prevent Erling Holland's brace and Markus Pedersen's goal. As part of the Senegalese team, Ismaila Sarr scored two goals. Currently, the situation for the Teranga Lions is critical. The team has 0 points and a negative goal difference (-3). Senegal only needs a victory over Iraq. Three points and an improvement in goal difference will most likely allow the team to make it to the round of 16.