Iraq at World Cup 2026
Iraq at the 2026 World Cup
Iraq qualified through the Inter-confederation play-off Path 2 on 31 March 2026, securing their first World Cup appearance since Mexico 1986 under Graham Arnold. His tactical setup prioritises defensive organisation and quick transitions. Norway will offer a winnable opening, but France and Senegal present significant tests for a side making their return to the tournament.
Iraq in Goal Rush
📋 Full Squad (34)
Manager: Graham Arnold · Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
Group Stage
Upcoming Matches
Form & Qualifying
Iraq's route to the World Cup was settled less by what they did with the ball than by what they prevented without it, the Lions of Mesopotamia became the archetypal low-block operators under Arnold, who took over mid-campaign after Jesus Casas was sacked.
Other Tier 5 Teams
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Iraq's preliminary squad
Graham Arnold's 34-man preliminary squad will be reduced to the final 26 by 1 June 2026. The squad is built around goalkeeper leadership and attacking options across multiple club levels. It's a compact squad structured to execute Arnold's defensive system in their historic return to the World Cup.
Iraq's Group I fixtures
Iraq's three Group I fixtures begin with Norway on 16 June at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, followed by France on 22 June at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia and Senegal on 26 June at BMO Field in Toronto.
How far can Iraq go at the World Cup?
Iraq's Tier 5 status and Group I draw position them as clear underdogs in their first World Cup since Mexico 1986. Norway offers a realistic opening opportunity, but France and Senegal will test their defensive system significantly. Arnold's low-block approach will be essential if Iraq are to create any surprises in the group stage.