The story
The Iraq national football team, affectionately known to their passionate supporters as the Lions of Mesopotamia, enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 with high expectations. Currently ranked number 57 in the world, they bring a unique tactical identity and style from AFC to this expanded 48-team tournament.
A nation for whom simply being here is a victory, and they want much more.
With the tournament co-hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Iraq will count on their travelling support to create a vibrant atmosphere. Their primary objective will be to make a statement in Group I and navigate their way to the high-stakes knockout rounds.
What to watch
Keep a close eye on their transition play in Group I. The connection between Aymen Hussein and Zidane Iqbal is crucial to their attacking spark.
X-factor
Aymen Hussein - the clinical striker who holds the ability to turn a match on its head with a single moment of magic.
Iraq are poised to be one of the most intriguing stories of the group stage, bringing great energy to the tournament.
Their fixtures
Norwegen 
Irak Norwegen 4:1 Irak
Norwegen 4:1 Irak. Gruppe I. BC Place, Vancouver. Di., 16. Juni.
Irak 
Senegal Irak 0:5 Senegal
Irak 0:5 Senegal. Gruppe I. BC Place, Vancouver. So., 21. Juni.
Frankreich Irak Frankreich 3:0 Irak
Frankreich 3:0 Irak. Gruppe I. SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles. Do., 25. Juni.