Iraq's Squad for World Cup: A Historic Return

Iraq's head coach Graham Arnold announced a 26-man squad for the World Cup, emphasizing players from the intercontinental playoffs. Aymen Hussein leads the attack, while Dario Naamo is notably absent. Iraq returns to the World Cup after 40 years, competing in Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway.

Iraq's head coach, Graham Arnold, has revealed the 26-man squad set to represent the country in the upcoming World Cup. Relying primarily on players who ensured Iraq's qualification through the intercontinental playoffs, the squad is headlined by experienced forward Aymen Hussein. Hussein, who stands as a pivotal figure in the team, will lead an attacking line-up that includes Ipswich Town's Ali Al-Hamadi alongside emerging talents Ali Jassim and Youssef Amyn.

The announcement also highlighted a significant exclusion, with Dundee defender Dario Naamo dropped after a change in his sporting nationality, previously representing Finland in youth competitions. The midfield, however, is bolstered by Europe's familiar names, Utrecht's Zidane Iqbal and Heerenveen's Aimar Sher, providing substantial international experience. Arnold also retains goalkeeper Kamil Saadi as a strategic move to safeguard against injuries during the team’s training sessions.

After securing their World Cup position with a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in April, Iraq celebrates a return to football's grandest stage for the first time in four decades. They have been drawn into Group I, where they will face formidable opponents including France, Senegal, and Norway.