Iraq Is Back: The Longest Wait in World Cup History Is Over

On April 1, 2026, at a packed neutral venue, the Iraqi national football team — the Lions of Mesopotamia — did what 40 years of war, sanctions, occupation, and political upheaval could not prevent. They beat Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoff to secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending the longest absence from football’s grandest stage by any former qualifier in history.

The goals came from the men who have carried Iraqi hopes on their shoulders all campaign: Ali al-Hamadi opened the scoring with a clinical finish in the 34th minute, and Aymen Hussein sealed the victory with a thunderous strike in the 71st minute that sent shockwaves from the stadium all the way to the streets of Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, and Mosul.

Within hours, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani declared two national holidays. Fireworks — and, in characteristic Iraqi fashion, celebratory gunfire — erupted across every province. Spontaneous victory parades flooded the streets of Baghdad well into the early hours. Municipal councils across the country began the process of renaming streets to “Lions of Mesopotamia Street” in honor of the squad that brought a nation together.

Iraq has been drawn into Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside France, Senegal, and Norway. This is the story of how they got here, who they’ll face, and what it all means — for football, for business, and for a country that has waited far too long for something to celebrate.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Format Explained

Before diving into Iraq’s group, it’s essential to understand how the 2026 tournament works, because it’s fundamentally different from anything we’ve seen before.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup — hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico — is the first to feature 48 teams, expanded from the traditional 32. The new format organizes teams into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group advance to a 32-team knockout round. This means Iraq needs just two strong results from three group matches to have a realistic shot at advancing.

Key format details every Iraqi fan needs to know:

• 48 teams divided into 12 groups (A through L)
• Group stage: Each team plays 3 matches
• Top 2 from each group advance to the round of 32
• No third-place qualification — unlike the 2026 format rumors, FIFA confirmed only the top 2 go through
• 104 matches total across 16 venues in 3 countries
• Final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on July 19, 2026

The expansion means more opportunities for teams like Iraq, but the group stage remains unforgiving. Every match is a must-watch, and every point is precious.

Group I Breakdown: France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq

The draw placed Iraq in one of the tournament’s most fascinating groups — a blend of European heavyweights, African power, Scandinavian precision, and Middle Eastern heart. Here’s what Iraq faces.

France — The Favorites

There is no sugarcoating it: France is one of the strongest teams in the tournament. The 2018 World Cup champions and 2022 runners-up bring a squad loaded with world-class talent playing at the highest levels of European club football.

France’s strengths are well-documented: depth across every position, tournament experience, a winning mentality forged in consecutive World Cup finals, and a tactical flexibility that allows them to adapt to any opponent. Their midfield remains among the best in world football, and their attacking options are relentless.

However, France are not invincible. They have historically shown vulnerability in group stages — their slow start at the 2022 World Cup (losing to Tunisia) and their group-stage wobble at Euro 2020 are reminders that Les Bleus can be caught cold. If Iraq catches France on the right day, with the right game plan, an upset is not impossible. Improbable, yes. But not impossible.

Key threat: France’s ability to control midfield and punish defensive mistakes with ruthless efficiency.

Iraq’s opportunity: France may rotate players in a group they expect to dominate, and complacency against a perceived weaker opponent has cost them before.

Senegal — The Lions of Teranga

Senegal is arguably the most dangerous opponent for Iraq in this group, and here’s why: they combine genuine world-class quality with the kind of physicality, pace, and tactical discipline that makes them a nightmare for any team that isn’t fully prepared.

The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations champions have established themselves as a permanent force in world football. Their squad features players from top European leagues — the Premier League, La Liga, Ligue 1, Serie A — and they bring an intensity and athleticism that is difficult to match.

Senegal’s defensive organization has improved dramatically in recent years, and their transition game — winning the ball and attacking at speed — is among the best in international football. They are not a team that Iraq can afford to underestimate.

Key threat: Senegal’s pace on the counter-attack and their aerial dominance from set pieces.

Iraq’s opportunity: Senegal can sometimes struggle against teams that control possession and deny them space to run into. If Iraq can dictate the tempo, there’s a path.

Norway — The Haaland Factor

Norway’s presence at the 2026 World Cup centers around one inescapable reality: Erling Haaland. The Manchester City striker is, by any measure, one of the most devastating goalscorers in the history of football. His combination of size, speed, and finishing is unlike anything the game has ever seen.

But Norway is more than just Haaland. They’ve developed a solid defensive structure, competent midfield play, and a tactical system built to maximize Haaland’s strengths. Their qualification campaign showed a team that could grind out results even when not playing their best football.

That said, Norway are not France or Senegal. They lack the same depth, the same tournament pedigree, and the same tactical versatility. This is a beatable team — but only if Iraq can contain Haaland, which is far easier said than done.

Key threat: Haaland. Full stop. Give him a chance, and he’ll bury it.

Iraq’s opportunity: Norway are most vulnerable when teams press them high and disrupt their build-up play. Iraq’s midfield energy could be the key.

Iraq — The Lions of Mesopotamia

Iraq enters this World Cup as the clear underdog in Group I, and that’s perfectly fine. Nobody expected them to be here, and nobody expects them to advance. That freedom from expectation is itself a weapon.

What Iraq brings to this tournament is something that cannot be quantified by FIFA rankings or player market values: hunger. This is a team representing a nation that has endured four decades of conflict, and they play with a passion and collective spirit that money cannot buy.

Iraq’s tactical identity under the current coaching setup emphasizes defensive solidity, disciplined shape, and quick transitions — exactly the kind of approach that causes problems for bigger teams in tournament football. They won’t try to outplay France in a possession battle. They’ll look to frustrate, counter, and seize moments.

Full Match Schedule: Dates, Times, and Venues

Here is Iraq’s complete group-stage schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup:

Other Group I fixtures:

Opening match spotlight — Iraq vs Norway, June 16, Boston: This is the match that matters most. Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts — home of the New England Patriots — will host Iraq’s return to the World Cup stage after four decades. The greater Boston area has a modest Iraqi community, but the real story will be the tens of thousands of Iraqi-Americans driving up from Dearborn, Michigan — home to the largest Iraqi diaspora community in the United States. Expect the stadium to be a sea of Iraqi flags.

Iraq’s Road to the World Cup: The Full Qualification Story

Iraq’s journey to the 2026 World Cup was not a straight line. It was a winding, dramatic, emotionally exhausting odyssey that tested the resolve of players, coaches, and an entire nation.

The Asian Qualifiers: Round by Round

Iraq entered the FIFA World Cup qualification process through the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) pathway, which for the 2026 cycle offered 8 direct spots plus one intercontinental playoff position — the most generous allocation Asia has ever received, thanks to the expanded 48-team format.

The early rounds were routine. Iraq dispatched lower-ranked opponents with relative ease, establishing themselves as a serious contender from the group stages. But it was in the later rounds — when the stakes escalated and the opponents improved — that Iraq’s character was truly revealed.

The third round of Asian qualifying placed Iraq in a group with established Asian powers. Match after match, the Lions of Mesopotamia showed a defensive resilience and counter-attacking bite that caught opponents off guard. Key victories at home, played in front of roaring crowds in Basra and Baghdad, provided the points that kept Iraq’s dream alive.

When the dust settled on the final round of Asian qualifying, Iraq had narrowly missed out on one of the 8 direct qualification spots but had secured the intercontinental playoff position — setting up the decisive clash with South American representative Bolivia.

The Playoff: Iraq 2-1 Bolivia

April 1, 2026. The date that will live forever in Iraqi football history.

Bolivia, who had come through their own grueling South American qualification campaign, were no pushovers. They brought their trademark physicality and altitude-tested lungs to the contest. But Iraq brought something more: the weight of 40 years of waiting and the hopes of 43 million people.

Ali al-Hamadi broke the deadlock in the 34th minute. A beautifully crafted team move, with quick passing through the Bolivian midfield, found al-Hamadi in space on the edge of the box. His first touch was perfect, his finish was clinical — low, hard, and into the far corner. Iraq 1-0.

Bolivia equalized in the 58th minute, and for a brief, agonizing period, it seemed like the dream might slip away again. Iraqi fans held their breath. Some couldn’t watch.

Then came the moment. The 71st minute. A long ball forward, a Bolivian defensive miscommunication, and suddenly Aymen Hussein was through on goal. The striker who had carried Iraq’s hopes through countless qualifiers didn’t hesitate. He struck the ball with ferocious power into the top corner, and the eruption — in the stadium, in Baghdad, in Dearborn, in London, in Sydney — was seismic.

The final 19 minutes were an exercise in collective willpower. Iraq defended as if their lives depended on it. Every tackle was a statement. Every clearance was a roar. When the final whistle blew, players collapsed to the ground in tears. Coaches embraced. And a nation that has known far too much pain allowed itself, for one glorious night, to feel nothing but pure joy.

Key Players: Iraq’s Squad Preview

Iraq’s World Cup squad will be finalized in the weeks before the tournament, but the core of the team is well established. Here are the players who will carry Iraq’s hopes in the United States.

Ali al-Hamadi — The Talisman

Al-Hamadi has emerged as Iraq’s most important player over the qualification campaign. His ability to score decisive goals in pressure moments — the opener against Bolivia being the latest example — makes him invaluable. Playing his club football in Europe, al-Hamadi brings a level of tactical awareness and finishing quality that elevates the entire team. He is Iraq’s creative spark and goalscoring threat rolled into one. Expect him to start every match at the World Cup.

Aymen Hussein — The Warrior

If al-Hamadi is the talisman, Aymen Hussein is the warrior. A powerful, direct striker who runs defenders into the ground, Hussein provides Iraq with a physical presence that opponents cannot ignore. His goal against Bolivia — that thunderous top-corner strike — was the culmination of a campaign built on hard work, aggression, and an unbreakable will to win. Hussein’s work rate off the ball is just as important as his goals; he presses from the front, wins aerial duels, and creates space for his teammates.

The Defensive Core

Iraq’s qualification was built on a foundation of defensive solidity. The backline has developed an understanding forged through years of playing together, and the goalkeeping position has been a source of stability throughout the campaign. Iraq conceded fewer goals than many higher-ranked Asian teams during qualification, and this defensive discipline will be their greatest asset against the attacking firepower of France, Senegal, and Norway.

The Midfield Engine

Iraq’s midfield is the heartbeat of the team. Industrious, disciplined, and technically capable, the midfield unit provides the transition from defense to attack that Iraq’s counter-attacking style depends on. Their ability to win the ball in midfield and release the forwards quickly will be the tactical key to Iraq’s World Cup campaign.

The Young Talents

One of the most exciting aspects of Iraq’s squad is the emergence of young players who have broken into the team during the qualification campaign. These players bring energy, fearlessness, and a confidence born from growing up in a footballing culture that has, despite everything, continued to produce talent. The World Cup stage could be the launching pad for the next generation of Iraqi football stars.

Historical Context: Iraq and the World Cup

Mexico 1986 — The Last Time

The last time Iraq appeared at a FIFA World Cup was in Mexico 1986. That team, playing during the Iran-Iraq War, qualified against extraordinary odds and represented a unified moment for the country. They lost all three group-stage matches — to Paraguay (0-1), Belgium (1-2), and Mexico (0-1) — but the mere fact of their presence on the world stage was a source of immense national pride.

The 1986 squad played with courage and competitiveness that belied their underdog status. The narrow losses demonstrated that Iraq belonged at the World Cup, even if the results didn’t go their way. That team laid the foundation for Iraqi football’s golden era.

The 2007 Asian Cup — The Miracle of Baghdad

While Iraq didn’t qualify for another World Cup between 1986 and 2026, they achieved something perhaps even more remarkable in 2007. In the midst of the worst sectarian violence Iraq had ever seen — with car bombs killing dozens in Baghdad daily — the Iraqi national team won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup in a tournament hosted by four Southeast Asian countries.

That victory, against all odds and in circumstances that are almost impossible to comprehend, remains one of the greatest achievements in the history of international football. Players who couldn’t train together, who came from communities that were killing each other, who had teammates and family members threatened and murdered, came together and beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the final.

The celebrations that followed were bittersweet — celebratory gunfire in Baghdad killed dozens, a tragic reminder of the environment in which Iraqi football existed. But the 2007 Asian Cup victory proved something that the 2026 World Cup qualification has reaffirmed: football in Iraq is more than a sport. It is a lifeline.

The Lost Decades: War-Disrupted Football

Between 1986 and 2026, Iraq’s football development was devastated by:

• The final years of the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988)
• The Gulf War (1990-1991) and subsequent sanctions that isolated Iraqi football
• Uday Hussein’s notorious control of Iraqi football, including torture of underperforming players
• The 2003 US invasion and destruction of sporting infrastructure
• Years of sectarian civil war that made domestic football nearly impossible
• The rise of ISIS (2014-2017), which destroyed stadiums and murdered athletes
• Ongoing political instability and corruption within Iraqi football administration

That Iraq has produced a World Cup-qualifying team despite this history is not just a sporting achievement — it is a testament to the resilience of the Iraqi people. For more on how conflict has shaped the Middle East, read our coverage on The Middle East Insider.

The Business Angle: $500 Million and Beyond

Iraq’s World Cup qualification isn’t just a feel-good story — it’s an economic event with potentially transformative implications.

Tourism and Travel Revenue

The estimated economic impact of Iraq’s World Cup participation exceeds $500 million when accounting for:

• Travel and tourism: Tens of thousands of Iraqi fans will travel to the United States for the tournament, spending on flights, hotels, food, merchandise, and experiences. The Iraqi diaspora — particularly from Dearborn (Michigan), London, Sydney, and Stockholm — will converge on match venues.
• Broadcast rights and advertising: Iraqi media companies, telecoms, and brands will invest heavily in World Cup-related advertising and sponsorship.
• Merchandise: Iraq national team jerseys have already become the fastest-selling item across Iraqi e-commerce platforms. Global sports retailers are rushing to stock Iraqi merchandise.
• Domestic spending: Fan zones, public screenings, restaurants, and entertainment venues across Iraq will see massive revenue boosts during the tournament period.

Brand Iraq: The Soft Power Dividend

Perhaps more valuable than the direct economic impact is the soft power dividend. For decades, Iraq has been associated in global media with war, terrorism, and instability. The World Cup offers Iraq a chance to present a different narrative to a global audience of billions.

Every time Iraq takes the field, cameras will show Iraqi fans celebrating, commentators will tell stories of resilience, and the world will be reminded that Iraq is a country of 43 million people who love football, who have families, who have hopes and dreams — not just a war zone.

This rebranding effect is enormously valuable for Iraq’s long-term economic development, particularly in sectors like tourism, foreign investment, and international business relationships.

Infrastructure Investment

The World Cup qualification has already accelerated investment in Iraqi sporting infrastructure. New stadiums, training facilities, and sports academies are being planned or expanded. The Iraqi Football Association has received increased funding, and international sports bodies are showing renewed interest in Iraqi football development.

This infrastructure investment has ripple effects: construction jobs, ongoing maintenance employment, youth development programs, and the creation of a sports tourism industry that didn’t previously exist in Iraq.

The Iraqi Diaspora: Where the World Will Watch

One of the most compelling subplots of Iraq’s World Cup participation is the global Iraqi diaspora — an estimated 4-5 million Iraqis living outside the country who will be watching, traveling, and celebrating together.

Dearborn, Michigan — The Heartbeat

Dearborn and the greater Detroit metropolitan area is home to the largest Iraqi community in the United States — an estimated 200,000+ Iraqi-Americans, predominantly from Chaldean Christian and Shia Muslim backgrounds. When Iraq beat Bolivia, the streets of Dearborn erupted. Cars honked for hours. Iraqi flags appeared on every balcony and storefront.

For the June 16 opening match against Norway in Boston, expect thousands of Dearborn residents to make the 12-hour drive east. Charter buses are already being organized. Hotels in the greater Boston area are seeing booking surges from Michigan zip codes. This will be the largest gathering of Iraqi-Americans for a sporting event in history.

London, United Kingdom

The UK is home to an estimated 300,000-400,000 Iraqis, concentrated in London (particularly in areas like Shepherds Bush, Ealing, and Edgware Road) and in cities like Manchester and Birmingham. Iraqi community centers and restaurants are already planning massive screening events. Many UK-based Iraqis are booking flights to the US for the tournament.

Sydney and Melbourne, Australia

Australia’s Iraqi community — concentrated in western Sydney (Fairfield, Liverpool) and Melbourne’s northern suburbs — numbers over 100,000. Given the time zone challenges (matches will be in the early morning hours), expect 24-hour Iraqi cafes and community centers to become the gathering points. The passion of the Australian-Iraqi community is legendary; their celebrations after the 2007 Asian Cup win are still talked about.

Stockholm and Malmö, Sweden

Sweden hosts one of Europe’s largest Iraqi communities, with an estimated 150,000-180,000 Iraqis, primarily in Stockholm and Malmö. Swedish-Iraqis have contributed significantly to Swedish football itself, and the community’s engagement with the national team is intense. The irony of Iraq facing Norway — Sweden’s Scandinavian neighbor — will not be lost on this community.

Amman, Jordan and Istanbul, Turkey

These two cities host the largest Iraqi communities in the Middle East outside Iraq itself. For those who can’t travel to the US, Amman and Istanbul will be the regional hubs for Iraqi World Cup celebrations.

How to Get Tickets and Travel to Matches

For Iraqi fans planning to attend the World Cup, here’s what you need to know.

Ticket Information

• FIFA.com is the only official ticket source. All tickets are digital.
• General sale prices for group-stage matches start at approximately $50-$75 for Category 3 seats and go up to $200+ for Category 1.
• Conditional tickets: FIFA offers tickets linked to specific team outcomes — if your team qualifies, the ticket activates. Many Iraqi fans purchased these during earlier sales phases.
• Resale: FIFA operates an official resale platform. Third-party resellers exist but carry risks of counterfeit tickets.
• Accessibility: FIFA provides accessible seating at all venues. Apply through the FIFA ticketing portal.

US Visa Requirements

This is the most critical practical consideration for Iraqi fans traveling from Iraq or from countries where they don’t hold Western passports.

• Iraqi passport holders require a US visa (B1/B2 tourist visa) to attend.
• FIFA has historically worked with host countries to facilitate Fan ID programs that streamline visa processing for ticket holders. Details for 2026 are expected to be announced by FIFA.
• Processing times for US visas from Iraq can be lengthy. Fans should begin the application process immediately.
• Iraqi diaspora holding US, UK, Australian, or European passports will have easier access — this is another reason why diaspora attendance will likely exceed attendance from Iraq itself.

Travel Tips

• Book flights early. Direct flights from Iraq to the US are limited. Most routes go through Istanbul, Amman, or Doha.
• Boston accommodation: For the June 16 Norway match, book now. Hotels in Foxborough itself are limited; Boston proper is a 45-minute drive.
• Fan zones: FIFA will operate official fan zones in host cities. These are free entry and show all matches on giant screens.
• Detroit as a base: Given the large Iraqi community, Dearborn/Detroit could serve as a comfortable base for fans attending the Boston match, with familiar food, language, and community support available.

Can Iraq Advance from Group I? A Realistic Assessment

Let’s be honest about the odds, and then let’s talk about why the odds don’t tell the whole story.

The Realistic Scenario

France will likely top the group. They have the quality, the experience, and the depth to win all three matches. Senegal are strong favorites for the second spot, given their superior squad quality and tournament pedigree.

On paper, Iraq finishing in the top two would require:

• Beating Norway (achievable)
• Getting a result against either France or Senegal (very difficult)
• Other results going in Iraq’s favor

Bookmakers will likely have Iraq as the longest odds to advance from Group I. That’s the realistic assessment.

The Case for Belief

But World Cup history is filled with teams that defied the odds:

• South Korea 2002: Co-hosts who reached the semi-finals after beating Spain, Italy, and Portugal.
• Costa Rica 2014: Drew into the “Group of Death” with Uruguay, Italy, and England — and topped the group.
• Morocco 2022: Beat Belgium and Spain en route to a historic semi-final. This is the most relevant example for Iraq — an Arab team, playing with immense pride and tactical discipline, shocking the world.
• Saudi Arabia 2022: Beat Argentina in their opening match, one of the greatest World Cup upsets in history.

Iraq has several factors working in their favor:

• No pressure: Every other team in Group I has expectations. Iraq has none. They can play with freedom.
• Fan support: The Iraqi diaspora will create a hostile atmosphere for opponents, particularly in Boston.
• Tactical discipline: Iraq’s counter-attacking style is tailor-made for tournament football against stronger opponents.
• Momentum: A team that has just ended a 40-year World Cup drought carries an emotional energy that is hard to quantify but very real.

The opening match against Norway is the key. Win that, and suddenly Iraq has 3 points, Norway has 0, and the dynamic of the entire group shifts. Even a loss to France in Match 2 would leave Iraq needing a result against Senegal in the final match — difficult, but with 3 points already in the bag, not impossible.

The Dream Scenario

Iraq beats Norway. France beats Senegal. Iraq loses narrowly to France. Senegal beats Norway. Going into the final matchday, Iraq and Senegal are on 3 points each, and Iraq needs a draw against Senegal to advance on goal difference, assuming France have already qualified.

Is it likely? No. Is it possible? Absolutely. And in this World Cup, with this team, after everything Iraq has been through — possibility is enough.

Other Arab Teams at the 2026 World Cup

Iraq won’t be alone in representing the Arab world at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Several Arab nations have qualified, making this the most represented the region has ever been at a World Cup.

Saudi Arabia

The Green Falcons are becoming regulars at the World Cup. After their stunning upset of Argentina in 2022, Saudi Arabia carries genuine belief into 2026. Their domestic league investment — bringing stars like Cristiano Ronaldo — has raised the profile of Saudi football globally, and the team benefits from improved infrastructure and coaching as they prepare for their own hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Morocco

The Atlas Lions were the story of the 2022 World Cup, becoming the first African and Arab team to reach a semi-final. Morocco returns to 2026 with even higher expectations and a squad that has continued to develop. They are genuine contenders to go deep into the tournament again, and their success has inspired the entire Arab football world — including Iraq.

Qatar

As 2022 hosts, Qatar’s 2026 qualification on sporting merit is a statement about the development of their football program. While they face a tougher challenge on foreign soil than they did as hosts, Qatar’s experience and investment in football development make them competitive.

Tunisia

The Eagles of Carthage have a rich World Cup history and return to the tournament with a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging young talent. Tunisia’s qualification adds to the strong North African representation alongside Morocco.

The collective Arab presence at the 2026 World Cup is unprecedented. For Iraqi fans, there will be opportunities to support fellow Arab teams and to be part of a broader celebration of Middle Eastern and North African football on the world stage.

What This Means for Iraqi National Identity

It is impossible to separate Iraq’s World Cup qualification from the broader context of what Iraq has endured over the past four decades.

Since 1986 — the last time Iraq appeared at a World Cup — the country has lived through:

• The tail end of the Iran-Iraq War
• The invasion of Kuwait and the Gulf War
• 13 years of devastating international sanctions
• The 2003 US invasion and occupation
• Sectarian civil war
• The rise and fall of ISIS
• Political crises, corruption scandals, and economic hardship
• And now, a regional war on its doorstep as the Iran conflict reshapes the Middle East

Through all of this, football has remained the one thing that unites Iraqis across sectarian, ethnic, and political lines. Sunni, Shia, Kurd, Christian, Turkmen, Yazidi — when the national team plays, they are all Iraqi. The celebrations that erupted after the Bolivia match were not just about football. They were about identity, about survival, about proving that Iraq is still here, still standing, still capable of joy.

Prime Minister al-Sudani’s declaration of two national holidays was politically savvy, but it also reflected a genuine understanding of what this moment means. In a country where the government struggles to provide basic services and public trust in institutions is low, the national football team has become perhaps the most unifying institution in the country.

The naming of streets across Iraqi provinces as “Lions of Mesopotamia Street” is more than symbolic. It is an act of collective storytelling — a nation writing a new chapter in its narrative, one that doesn’t involve bombs or borders, but goals and glory.

Looking Ahead: Iraq’s Preparation for June

With the World Cup just over two months away, Iraq’s preparation enters its most critical phase.

• Warm-up matches: Iraq will seek friendly matches against competitive opponents to prepare for the intensity of World Cup football. Matches against Asian rivals and potentially European B-teams are being arranged.
• Training camp: The squad will likely convene for an extended training camp in May, with the possibility of holding the final preparation phase in the US to acclimatize to conditions.
• Squad selection: The final 26-man squad will be announced approximately two weeks before the tournament. Competition for places is fierce, and several borderline players will face anxious waits.
• Tactical preparation: Detailed analysis of France, Senegal, and Norway is underway. The coaching staff will develop specific game plans for each opponent, with the Norway match receiving the most attention as the winnable fixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

This article is continuously updated as new information about the 2026 FIFA World Cup becomes available. For the latest Middle East news, sports coverage, and analysis, visit The Middle East Insider.