23-05-2025
Graham Arnold names preliminary Iraq squad for crucial World Cup qualifiers
Baghdad ( – Newly appointed Iraq national team head coach, Australian Graham Arnold, announced a preliminary 30-man squad on Thursday (May 22, 2025) for the upcoming decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifying matches. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Iraqi FA headquarters.
The Lions of Mesopotamia face two crucial encounters in early June: away to South Korea on June 5th, followed by a clash with Jordan on June 10th. These matches are pivotal in Iraq's bid to qualify for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The extensive preliminary squad includes experienced goalkeepers Jalal Hassan and Fahad Talib; defenders such as Merchas Doski, Hussein Ali, and Saad Natiq; midfielders Amir Al-Amari, Ali Jasim, and Ibrahim Bayesh; and forwards Aymen Hussein, Mohanad Ali, and Ali Al-Hammadi. The list blends established internationals with emerging talents.
This squad selection marks one of Arnold's first major actions as he prepares the team for these high-stakes qualifiers, aiming to make a strong impact.
