Iraq
Iraq's World Cup return under Australian coach Graham Arnold — who previously led Australia to the 2022 quarter-finals — is a fascinating storyline. The Lions of Mesopotamia won the 2007 Asian Cup in one of international football's most emotional victories. Arnold has instilled Australian tactical discipline into a proud footballing culture.
At a Glance
Key Players
Coach: Graham Arnold
Tactical Analysis
A disciplined 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 with organised defensive blocks and direct transitions. Aymen Hussein leads the line with clever movement; Ali Adnan provides left-back quality developed in American football. The team relies on collective work rate and set-piece organisation.
Betting Angle
Iraq in Group I alongside France and Senegal face extremely tough opposition. Under 2.5 goals in their defensive matchups and draw odds in their balanced fixtures offer the most relevant angles.
Did You Know?
- Iraq won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup in an extraordinarily emotional tournament during a period of national turmoil.
- Graham Arnold led Australia to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals before taking the Iraq job — bringing expertise in Asian football development.
- Iraq's 1986 World Cup appearance was their only previous tournament until qualifying for 2026.