As the decisive match against Iraq approaches, a clear trend is emerging within the Senegalese national team: the possibility of Ibrahim Mbaye starting the game. After making a strong impact in the first two matches of the World Cup, the young Paris Saint-Germain forward is now seen as a key solution to inject some dynamism into an attack that sometimes lacks inspiration.
In a competition where every detail matters, Senegal can’t afford any mistakes. The match against Iraq is a true final for Pape Thiaw’s men. In this context, the question of whether to start Ibrahim Mbaye is gaining importance. Until now, he has been used as an offensive joker, consistently bringing speed, audacity, and unpredictability as soon as he steps onto the pitch. These qualities could prove invaluable from the very first minutes of a match where the Lions need to impose their rhythm quickly.
Against France and then Norway, Ibrahim Mbaye made a lasting impression. He didn’t need much time to make an impact, immediately weighing on the opposing defenses with his initiative and ability to push forward. With each appearance, he has added a new dimension to Senegal’s game, often making it more direct and dangerous when he’s involved.
Coach Pape Thiaw now faces an important decision. Should he stick with the familiarity of an experienced team or bet on the freshness and carefree spirit of a young player capable of turning a match on a single action? Since the start of the tournament, Senegal has shown two faces. Solid in their collective organization, they have sometimes lacked spontaneity in the final third. Conversely, the introduction of younger players has often freed up the game and created more offensive opportunities.
Ibrahim Mbaye perfectly embodies the ability to break established patterns. His offensive profile is built on risk-taking, drive, and a constant desire to play forward. Where some offensive sequences can become predictable, he brings a dose of uncertainty that forces opposing defenses to adapt. This ability to provoke and accelerate the game is one of his main assets today.
During the match against France, his entry helped Senegal regain momentum in a game that seemed to be slipping away. His runs, bursts of speed, and activity quickly created imbalances in the opposing block. His goal reignited Senegalese hopes, but it also fueled the debate about his status within the team and the opportunity to give him more responsibilities.
“He has the makings of a starter,” says Mansour Ayanda, convinced that modern football rewards players who can provide immediate answers to their team’s needs. According to him, Ibrahim Mbaye is now a concrete solution to the lack of depth and projection observed in Senegal’s offensive play since the start of the competition.
The same sentiment is echoed by Alassane Ndour, who believes the young forward’s profile perfectly matches the demands of today’s football. In matches that are often tightly contested, where space is limited and defenses are well-organized, the ability to eliminate an opponent or create individual imbalance becomes a major strategic asset. In his view, Ibrahim Mbaye has that knack for making a difference where collective solutions sometimes hit their limits.
No Senegalese offensive player has offered more than him in 135 minutes
Let’s be serious, Ibrahim Mbaye should never start on the bench again pic.twitter.com/4TuU1Yznx1
— Jah (@Jaah221) June 23, 2026
Senegal’s first two outings highlighted some offensive difficulties. Despite interesting sequences and often commendable intensity, the Lions sometimes lacked sharpness in key moments. Chances were there, but the rhythm breaks and individual risk-taking were too rare to turn the matches in their favor.
This is precisely where Ibrahim Mbaye can add real value. While some prioritize ball retention, he primarily seeks to accelerate the game and attack spaces. In a team that often builds its chances through long collective phases, his ability to provoke an immediate duel and create danger can become an essential weapon. Against Iraq, in a match where only victory matters, this quality could weigh heavily in the Senegalese staff’s decisions.
