Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986 — a 40-year absence that makes their 2026 qualification one of the most emotional stories in Asian football history. The 2007 AFC Asian Cup winners, who beat South Korea and Australia in a shock tournament run, are back on the world stage.
From 2007's Asian Triumph to 2026's World Stage
Iraq's first and only previous World Cup appearance came in 1986 in Mexico. They lost all three group games without scoring, but their presence — representing a nation in turbulent times — had significance far beyond the results. What followed were decades of political instability that disrupted football development across the country.
The transformation came with the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. In an extraordinary tournament played in Southeast Asia, Iraq beat Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Vietnam before beating Saudi Arabia again in the final. The celebrations in Baghdad — where crowds defied sectarian tensions to celebrate together — became one of sport's most powerful moments of unity.
Building on that foundation, Iraq's football program has steadily improved. European-based players joining the squad, Australian coach Graham Arnold (appointed May 2025), and better infrastructure have produced a team capable of navigating the competitive AFC qualification. In 2026, they get their second chance — qualifying as the 48th and final team by beating Bolivia 2–1 in a dramatic inter-confederation play-off in Monterrey on March 31, 2026.
Key Players for 2026
| Player | Position | Role & Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Aymen Hussein | Striker | Iraq's top scorer and most dangerous forward — prolific in the AFC qualification rounds and the go-to man for decisive goals |
| Amjed Attwan | Winger / Forward | Direct attacker with the pace and creativity to trouble opposing defences in wide areas |
| Ali Faez | Midfielder | Iraq's midfield anchor — disciplined, hard-working, and the foundation that allows more attacking players to express themselves |
| Mohanad Ali | Forward | Young Iraqi attacker with technical quality — part of the new generation that has driven Iraq's remarkable World Cup qualification |
| Ibrahim Bayesh | Midfielder / Forward | Experienced international whose quality in midfield or attack gives Iraq tactical flexibility |
The 2026 Challenge
Group I with France, Senegal, and Norway is one of the most challenging groups possible for Iraq. France are perennial contenders. Senegal won AFCON 2021. Norway have Haaland. Iraq will need to defend heroically and take whatever opportunities they create.
The objective is to compete with honor, show the world what Iraqi football has become, and perhaps steal a famous result against one of the group's giants. After a 40-year wait, the Lions of Mesopotamia deserve their moment.
Follow Iraq's World Cup 2026 return as the Lions of Mesopotamia end their 40-year wait on the world stage. ⚽
Frequently Asked Questions
Which group is Iraq in at FIFA World Cup 2026?
Iraq are in Group I with France, Senegal, and Norway.
When did Iraq last play at the FIFA World Cup?
Iraq last appeared at the World Cup in 1986 in Mexico — making 2026 their first return in 40 years.
Who is Iraq's best player at World Cup 2026?
Aymen Hussein is Iraq's most prolific striker and key attacking threat.
Has Iraq won any major football titles?
Yes — Iraq won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup in one of football's most emotional tournament victories.