Iraq ready for South Korea World Cup showdown declares coach Arnold
Basra, Iraq (IraqiNews.com) – Iraq's national football team is primed for a fiery encounter against Asian giants South Korea in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier at Basra's Palm Trunk Stadium tonight, Thursday, June 5th, at 9:15 PM.
Head coach Graham Arnold expressed his satisfaction at a pre-match press conference Wednesday, stating, 'The training camp was excellent, I've met all the players, and everyone is ready.' He was particularly impressed by the players' discipline throughout the ideal camp which began May 25th.
Echoing this confidence, team captain and goalkeeper Jalal Hassan declared, 'The Korean team does not scare us.' He highlighted the squad's high morale and clear harmony, urging fans for strong support. 'Our upcoming match is important, and we are fully prepared… We must start with a winning mentality; qualification is the most important thing,' Hassan emphasized.
Currently third in their qualifying group, the Lions of Mesopotamia likely need victories in their final two games (against South Korea and then Jordan) to secure direct World Cup qualification, making tonight's clash pivotal.
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Iraq ready for South Korea World Cup showdown declares coach Arnold
Basra, Iraq ( – Iraq's national football team is primed for a fiery encounter against Asian giants South Korea in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier at Basra's Palm Trunk Stadium tonight, Thursday, June 5th, at 9:15 PM. Head coach Graham Arnold expressed his satisfaction at a pre-match press conference Wednesday, stating, 'The training camp was excellent, I've met all the players, and everyone is ready.' He was particularly impressed by the players' discipline throughout the ideal camp which began May 25th. Echoing this confidence, team captain and goalkeeper Jalal Hassan declared, 'The Korean team does not scare us.' He highlighted the squad's high morale and clear harmony, urging fans for strong support. 'Our upcoming match is important, and we are fully prepared… We must start with a winning mentality; qualification is the most important thing,' Hassan emphasized. Currently third in their qualifying group, the Lions of Mesopotamia likely need victories in their final two games (against South Korea and then Jordan) to secure direct World Cup qualification, making tonight's clash pivotal.
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