Iraq news

A public holiday to mark this historic achievement

Secure your seat to witness the Lions of Mesopotamia make history in North America.

The Iraqi national team has nothing to lose at the World Cup

Ayman Hussein fulfils his dream nine years after making his promise

GOAL breaks down all the confirmed qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, plus the teams who could soon be on their way.

Iraq head coach Graham Arnold has issued an urgent plea to football’s international governing body to postpone his team’s intercontinental qualifier for the World Cup because of disruptions caused by the escalating Iran war. The Lions of Mesopotamia are currently scheduled to face either Suriname or Bolivia in a winner-takes-all play-off on March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico, but the logistical mountain has become too steep to climb.

There really is nothing like the World Cup. Even just qualifying generates a level of nationwide excitement that the club game simply cannot match, which is why we witnessed truly joyous scenes all across the globe during the March international break, as the final six qualifiers were confirmed for this summer's festival of football in North America.

Be part of the region’s most thrilling football event

How to watch the FIFA Arab Cup match between Algeria and Iraq, as well as kick-off time and team news.

FIFA Play-Off Tournament — how it works, who qualifies, seeding, format, schedule and other key points you should know.