Iraq defender Rebin Sulaka was sent off in the 13th minute of the match against Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday.
Senegalese striker Sadio Mane received the ball in the final third and turned towards goal as the Iraqi defender tugged on his shirt.
The referee, Anthony Taylor, checked the video assistant referee and concluded that the defender had denied a clear scoring opportunity.
This was the ninth red card of the tournament and the sixth for a player who denied a clear chance at goal.
The decision pushed Iraq further into a corner after conceding a goal in the fourth minute. A big win on Friday can keep Senegal in contention for the knockouts.
Published on June 27, 2026
