Iraq's national team preparation plan for the 2026 World Cup | Lions of Mesopotamia
Announcement of the Iraqi national team's preparation program for the 2026 World Cup
The Iraqi Football Association, headed by former international star Adnan Dirjal, announced a comprehensive and well-planned training program for the Iraqi national team as part of intensive preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This step aims to ensure that the "Lions of Mesopotamia" perform at a level befitting the reputation of Iraqi football and the aspirations of its vast fan base.
Details of training camps and friendly matches
In this context, Iraqi Football Association member Ghalib al-Zamili explained that the preparation plan will begin with the national team's first gathering in Basra at the end of May. The actual training camp is scheduled to begin after the conclusion of the domestic league on the 27th of the same month. Following the Basra camp, the team will travel to Spain for an important friendly match on June 4th, with a strong possibility of facing the Portuguese national team during their European training camp, which would provide the players with high-level competitive experience.
Al-Zamili indicated that the national team roster traveling to Spain will be comprehensive, including both prominent local players and professionals playing in foreign leagues. All players will undergo an intensive physical and technical training program before heading to the United States to finalize preparations and acclimatize to the conditions prior to the start of the World Cup.
Tough matches in the group stage
Al-Zamili stated that the Iraqi national team will begin its World Cup campaign with a tough match against Norway on June 17th, as part of Group I, which also includes world-class teams such as France and Senegal. To ensure complete readiness, Al-Zamili revealed ongoing efforts to arrange a second friendly match in Spain, either against an African national team or one of the prestigious Spanish clubs, with the aim of emulating Senegal's playing style and raising the team's technical and physical preparedness.
The historical significance and expected impact of the return of the Lions of Mesopotamia
Al-Zamili emphasized that the anticipated government support will play a pivotal role in providing all the necessary resources for ideal preparation. This World Cup participation holds immense and historic significance for Iraqi sports fans, representing a revival of Iraqi football on the global stage after a 40-year absence. Fans are reminded of 1986 when Iraq made its debut in the Mexico edition, led by a golden generation that etched its name in history. Today, this qualification further enhances Iraq's regional and international standing, especially following the impressive organizational and fan successes witnessed in Basra during the hosting of the 25th Gulf Cup, demonstrating to the world the passion of Iraqis for football and their ability to unite behind their nation.
The Iraqi Federation's vision and support for the open lineup
In the same context, the head of the federation, Adnan Darjal, announced that the national team will play three friendly matches against strong teams as part of its preparation program. He explained that actual preparations will begin with the players assembling on May 25, under the supervision of Australian coach Graham Arnold. Darjal stated that the training camp will last for three weeks and will include at least two friendly matches, with efforts underway to secure a third match against a world-class team, commensurate with the level of challenge in the tournament.
Darjal indicated that one of the matches might be held in Baghdad if conditions permit, giving fans the opportunity to bid farewell to their team. Other matches will be played abroad, including a potential European fixture and another being considered for a match in the United States. He added that discussions are ongoing with the Spanish Football Federation to arrange a friendly match there. He also stated that the national team roster remains open, with no restrictions on player selection, whether from the Iraqi league or from professionals playing abroad, emphasizing that the coaching staff has a clear vision for the squad.
How did Iraq secure qualification?
It is worth mentioning that the Iraqi national team secured its qualification for the 2026 World Cup finals after its exciting 2-1 victory over the Bolivian national team in the decisive World Cup play-off match held in Monterrey, unleashing widespread celebrations across the country.
