'We'll try & shock everyone' - Iraq coach after reaching World Cup #iraqfootball #worldcup2026

Iraq secured a place at the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 win over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff in Monterrey, ending a 40-year wait to return to the tournament. Iraq have been drawn in Group I alongside France, Norway and Senegal. Head coach Graham Arnold said his side will approach the competition with nothing to lose as they prepare to face some of the world’s top teams. Arnold said events in the Middle East had made preparation more difficult, with a focus on maintaining the players’ mentality under pressure. He added that qualification is a source of pride for the country and its millions of supporters. Iraq will compete at the World Cup for the first time since 1986.