'Embracing a sense of national responsibility'
Iraqi prime minister meets with president of soccer association to review performance at Gulf Cup
BAGHDAD – Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met with the head of Iraq’s soccer association, Adnan Dirjal, to review Iraq’s disappointing performance in the Arabian Gulf Cup currently being held in Kuwait. Defending champions Iraq crashed out int he group stages. Also discussed were aspirations to qualify for the next FIFA World Cup.
Statement by the PM’s media office:
Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met today, Thursday, the President of the Iraqi Football Association, Adnan Dirjal.
The meeting focused on the state of the national football team and its preparations for the upcoming decisive matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Emphasis was placed on seizing the opportunity to realize the Iraqis’ dream of qualification, particularly after the team’s participation in Gulf Cup 26, where the results did not meet fans’ expectations.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of everyone embracing a sense of national responsibility to secure qualification for the World Cup and to achieve the long-held dream of representing Iraq in the world’s most significant football event. He reiterated the government’s continued support for the national team and the football association in this national mission, highlighting the crucial role of fans and the media in backing the team throughout this journey.
Discussions also covered the Iraqi Professional League and the importance of providing all necessary resources to ensure its success, given its potential to elevate the standards of football clubs and players. The league’s success would positively impact national teams and clubs in international competitions. The government’s efforts to support this initiative were also highlighted, particularly after the partnership agreement with the Spanish La Liga.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the “Dream Project”, overseen by the Iraqi Football Association in collaboration with La Liga. The project is set to launch in the coming days.