Arnold: Ayman Hussein fit for Iraq’s clash with Saudi Arabia

BAGHDAD — Iraq national team head coach Graham Arnold said striker Ayman Hussein is ready to play in Tuesday’s Asian playoff match against Saudi Arabia, part of the qualification process for the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Arnold said, “Ayman Hussein is ready for the match, and I will assess the physical condition of the remaining players to select the best lineup.”

He added, “We have only one idea: to play for the win.”

Arnold said Iraq’s place in the global playoff round has already been secured, reducing pressure on the team. “Ninety percent of the pressure will be on Saudi Arabia, not us,” he said.

“The importance of this match lies in its national and popular value. Every match is important to me, but the real importance here belongs to the Iraqi players and the fans behind them,” he said.

Iraqi team is preparing for a decisive showdown against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday after edging Indonesia 1–0 in the Asian playoff qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, keeping alive hopes of returning to the tournament for the first time since 1986.

Meanwhile, the Iraqi Football Association, in coordination with Iraq’s consulate in Jeddah, announced the distribution of free tickets for supporters of the national team ahead of its upcoming match against Saudi Arabia.