Iraq are heading back to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in decades after officially qualifying for the 2026 tournament, ending a long wait and reigniting dreams across the nation.
After missing out on every World Cup since 1986, Iraq finally return to football’s biggest stage hoping to write a new chapter in the country’s football history. Drawn into Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway, the Lions of Mesopotamia face one of the toughest groups in the tournament, but belief is growing around a talented generation eager to make an impact.
Iraq’s Long Road Back to the World Cup
For Iraqi football fans, qualification for the 2026 World Cup represents far more than just another tournament appearance.
Since their only World Cup appearance in 1986, Iraq endured decades of heartbreak in qualification campaigns:
- 2002: Failed to qualify
- 2006: Failed to qualify
- 2010: Failed to qualify
- 2014: Failed to qualify
- 2018: Failed to qualify
- 2022: Failed to qualify
- 2026: Qualified ✅
Now, after a 40 year absence from the tournament, Iraq finally return to the global stage carrying huge expectations and national pride.
Group I Challenge
Iraq have landed in a brutal Group I featuring France, Senegal, and Norway.
France enter the tournament as one of the favorites to win the World Cup, boasting elite talent and major tournament experience. Senegal remain one of Africa’s strongest national teams, while Norway bring attacking firepower and physicality.
Progressing from the group will not be easy, but Iraq will hope passion, organization, and defensive discipline can make them dangerous opponents.
Manager: Graham Arnold
Leading Iraq into the World Cup is experienced Australian coach Graham Arnold.
Arnold arrives with significant international tournament experience and is expected to focus on tactical structure, defensive stability, and maximizing Iraq’s strengths against stronger opposition.
His biggest challenge will be helping a relatively young squad manage pressure on football’s biggest stage after such a long absence.
Star Player: Mohanad Ali
Iraq’s biggest attacking hope is Mohanad Ali.
The striker has long been considered one of the brightest talents in Iraqi football and will likely carry much of the responsibility in front of goal. Capable of moments of brilliance, Mohanad’s ability to deliver in decisive moments could define Iraq’s tournament.
If Iraq are to shock the world, their star forward will almost certainly play a major role.
One to Watch: Ahmed Qasem
One player generating excitement is Ahmed Qasem.
The young attacking talent is viewed as one of Iraq’s most promising players and could emerge as a breakout star during the tournament. Creative, technically gifted, and fearless going forward, Qasem may prove vital in unlocking defenses against elite opposition.
Many supporters already see him as one of the future faces of Iraqi football.
Predicted Iraq Lineup
Iraq are expected to line up with a balanced and energetic side built around defensive discipline and quick transitions.
Goalkeeper: Ahmed Basil
Defense: Merchas Doski, Akam Hashem, Zaid Tahseen, Hussein Ali
Midfield: Ibrahim Bayesh, Amir Al Ammari, Aimar Sher, Ahmed Qasem
Attack: Ali Al Hamadi, Mohanad Ali
The squad features players competing across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, giving Iraq a blend of experience and tactical variety.
Can Iraq Cause an Upset?
Iraq enter the World Cup as underdogs, but tournament football has repeatedly shown that surprises are always possible.
After waiting four decades to return, the Lions of Mesopotamia will arrive with enormous motivation and a nation behind them.
Escaping a group featuring France, Senegal, and Norway would be a huge achievement, but Iraq’s return alone already marks one of the feel good stories of the 2026 World Cup.
Now comes the biggest question of all: can Iraq turn their long awaited comeback into something unforgettable?
For Iraqi fans, the dream is finally alive again.
