Iraq is set to make its long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup this summer, ending a 40-year absence from the tournament. This marks a significant moment for the national team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, as they engage in football’s premier competition for the first time since their debut in Mexico in 1986. In their last World Cup appearance, Iraq faced a tough battle, losing all three matches and scoring just one goal, a solitary effort from striker Ahmed Radhi against Belgium.
Iraq’s Journey to the World Cup
The team’s path to qualification has been nothing short of remarkable. Under the guidance of Graham Arnold, who took on the role of head coach in May 2025, Iraq’s fortunes began to change. Arnold stepped in after a disappointing performance under former coach Jesús Casas, who was dismissed after a 2-1 defeat to Palestine left the team struggling to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Arnold’s arrival rejuvenated the squad, culminating in strong performances that saw Iraq finish third in their AFC group behind powerhouses South Korea and Jordan.
Iraq’s qualification saga included a pivotal two-legged playoff against the UAE in November, where they secured a 1-1 draw in Abu Dhabi followed by a vital 2-1 home victory in Basra. This win set the stage for an intercontinental playoff against Bolivia in Monterrey, where Aymen Hussein scored the decisive goal, clinching a spot in the World Cup.
Key Players and Squad Composition
The Iraqi squad boasts a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talent. Veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan leads the team and brings invaluable experience, having earned over 100 caps for his country. Al-Karma’s Aymen Hussein emerged as a standout scorer during the Asian qualifiers, netting eight goals before his crucial strike against Bolivia.
Another prominent player is Zidane Iqbal, a graduate of the Manchester United academy who currently plays for FC Utrecht. Iqbal is expected to play a pivotal role in the midfield alongside other talented players from both domestic leagues and international clubs. The team’s foundation revolves around players from local clubs like Al-Shorta and Al-Zawraa, ensuring a strong domestic backbone.
World Cup Fixtures and Challenges
Iraq’s road in the 2026 World Cup will not be easy, as they have been placed in a challenging group that features formidable opponents. They will kick off their campaign against Norway on June 16 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The subsequent matches pit them against the likes of France and Senegal, making each match crucial in their quest for advancement to the knockout stage. Coach Arnold has encouraged his players to embrace the significance of competing against world-class talents such as Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
As the anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how Iraq will perform on this grand stage, hoping for a more favorable outcome than their last World Cup experience. The eyes of the footballing world will be on Iraq as they aim to write a new chapter in their history.
Final Thoughts
With Iraq’s return to the FIFA World Cup, the team carries not only their hopes but also the expectations of a nation eager for success on an international stage. As they prepare to face off against some of the best teams in the world, Iraq’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience in the face of adversity. The Lions of Mesopotamia are ready to roar at the 2026 World Cup, and fans around the world are hopeful that this talented squad will make their mark in football history.