(foto: Getty Images)
Iraq returns to the World Cup after four decades, with Aymen Hussein’s emotional story and a resilient squad ready to face France, Senegal, and Haaland’s Norway.
Iraq are back at the World Cup after nearly four decades, and their return carries far more weight than football alone.
The global context around this tournament remains controversial, with political tensions and conflicts shaping the narrative. Yet for the Iraqi team, this moment stands apart. It represents pride, survival, and a rare sense of unity.
The last time Iraq played at a World Cup was in 1986 in Mexico. Back then, despite internal pressure and fear under the regime of Saddam Hussein, the team competed with discipline and left a solid impression despite three narrow defeats.
Now they return to the same country, sealing qualification with a 2-1 win over Bolivia at BBVA Stadium in Monterrey. The result sparked scenes of celebration across a nation that has lived through years of war, instability, and loss.
The defining figure of this story is Aymen Hussein. The 30-year-old striker scored the decisive goal, but his life story carries even greater weight.
Born near Kirkuk, he grew up during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He lost his father in a terrorist attack in Baghdad in 2008. His brother, a police officer, was kidnapped by Islamic State militants in 2014 and never returned. His career unfolded alongside personal tragedy and national turmoil.
"I wanted to take Iraq to the World Cup," he said years ago. He has now delivered on that promise.
In a country divided across religious and ethnic lines, his goal united millions. Fans across communities celebrated together, placing football above divisions, if only for a moment.
This qualification demanded persistence. Iraq played 21 matches across multiple qualifying rounds. They advanced through the second and third rounds of Asian qualifiers, then secured their place through additional play-offs, culminating in the decisive match in Monterrey.
Head coach Graham Arnold, appointed in May 2025, played a key role. The Australian coach had already guided his own country to a World Cup before, and he brought structure and belief to the Iraqi squad.
"The players showed a true Iraqi mentality. They gave everything. I am proud we made 46 million people happy," he said after the win.
The squad blends experience and youth. Veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan anchors the team with around 100 international caps. Younger players bring energy and exposure from foreign leagues.
Ali Jasim plays in Saudi Arabia, Zidan Iqbal represents Utrecht, and Amir Al-Amari competes in Poland with Cracovia. Defender Zaid Tahseen moved to Pakhtakor Tashkent, adding further international experience to the group.
The challenge ahead is huge. Iraq will face France, likely led by Kylian Mbappe, Senegal, and Norway with Erling Haaland. On paper, they are outsiders in every match.
But this team has already exceeded expectations. Their journey reflects resilience shaped by hardship and belief built over time. They arrive at the World Cup with nothing to lose and a nation behind them.
If they manage another surprise, it will not feel accidental. It will feel earned.