Iraq's Football Federation Renews Contract with National Team Coach Jesus Casas
As preparation for 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers
Iraqi Football Federation renews contract with coach Jesús Casas
BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Football Federation has renewed its contract with Spanish coach Jesús Casas, ensuring his leadership of the national team through the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers. The announcement came after a meeting on Saturday between Federation President Adnan Darjal and Casas at La Liga headquarters in Baghdad.
The federation stated, “Casas will continue his journey with our national team for a new term, where he will lead the team in the decisive Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.”
Darjal highlighted the importance of Casas’ continued role, stating, “Keeping Casas with the national team is a significant step towards ensuring stability within our squad. Securing victories in the upcoming matches will provide a strong boost towards realizing our dream of World Cup qualification.”
He also emphasized the value of playing in front of a home crowd, noting, “The opportunity to play in front of our home crowd after participating in previous international commitments is invaluable. It will allow our fans to witness the Lions of Mesopotamia up close, in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and pride.”
Expressing his satisfaction with the contract renewal, Casas said, “I am very happy to extend my contract with the Iraqi national team until January 2027. My staff, our families, and I are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by the Iraqi Football Federation, the dedication of the players, and the support of the entire Iraqi people.”
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Casas added, “The national team faces a significant and extremely tough challenge, and we hope to fulfill the dreams of an entire nation.”
The Iraqi national team is set to begin a training camp on Aug. 25 in Doha, Qatar, in preparation for their matches against Oman in Basra on Sep. 5 and Kuwait in Kuwait on September 10. Darjal also expressed confidence in Basra’s readiness to host international matches, citing the quality of its stadiums and the city’s experience in hosting international events.