Iraq national football team head coach Graham Arnold speaks to the media in Basra ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifying playoff matches against the United Arab Emirates. (INA photo)
Arnold eyes redemption as Iraq prepares for World Cup playoff with UAE
BASRA — Iraq national football team head coach Graham Arnold said he was happy to return to Iraq and called the team’s upcoming matches against the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi and Basra “crucial steps” in the country’s pursuit of World Cup qualification.
“Our first goal is to secure Iraq’s qualification to the World Cup, which is the most important achievement for us,” Arnold told the Iraqi News Agency. “Qualifying through the half slot is a historic opportunity for Iraq, and it must be seized with full strength.”
Arnold acknowledged fan frustration following the goalless draw against Saudi Arabia but praised his players’ effort. “I know the fans and media were disappointed after the Saudi Arabia match, but I want to emphasize that I’m proud of the players, their performance, discipline, and the work they put in,” he said. “We played at a high defensive level and didn’t concede in both games, which is credit to the team. But we must be more effective offensively and put the ball in the net.”
The coach confirmed his final squad for the two playoff matches, noting that midfielder Ibrahim Bayesh will miss out due to injury. “Unfortunately, Ibrahim Bayesh will be out of the list because of injury, as he hasn’t played since the Saudi Arabia game,” Arnold said. “The good news is that Ayman Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi are back to strengthen the attack, and both are key to improving our scoring.”
He said the team’s selection focused on players who are fully fit and ready to compete. “The match will be 11 versus 11, like a battlefield, and we need everyone representing Iraq to give everything for the win,” he said.
Arnold also urged fans to stand behind the team. “Please keep believing in us. We always need your support—it’s very important for us. We’ll see you in Basra, and I expect the stadium to be full. You are the 12th player and will be a decisive factor in continuing the journey to qualification. We and the players will do everything we can to achieve this goal.”
The Asian Football Confederation has scheduled Iraq’s playoff matches against the UAE for Nov. 13 and 18 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The first leg will take place at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, with the return leg to follow at Basra International Stadium.
Iraq reached the playoff stage after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia on Oct. 14 in Jeddah, which ended hopes of direct qualification. Following that result, Iraq Football Association President Adnan Darjal said, “We must apologize to our loyal fans who supported us in the stadium and through television screens. The opportunity is still there, and we must fight for it fiercely.”