Iraq Chases World Cup After Four Decades

Iraq, a nation long beset by political instability, armed conflict, economic fragility, pervasive corruption, and the effects of severe climate change, is now gripped by an extraordinary footballing fervour. Even Australian coach Graham Arnold, who took charge of the national team amid enormous pressure, admits he was unprepared for the intensity of the nation’s passion.

When Arnold assumed the role of head coach, pundits warned that guiding Iraq to the World Cup would be among the toughest assignments in world football. Forty years of absence from the tournament, combined with enormous national expectations, made the task formidable. Yet the team is now just one match away from realising a historic dream.

Iraq has secured a place in the intercontinental play-off final, with their opponent confirmed as Bolivia. A victory in Monterrey, Mexico, on 31 March would see Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986. Should they succeed, Arnold would become the first Australian coach to qualify two different nations for football’s premier event, having previously guided Australia to the World Cup in 2005.

“I was told before taking this job that it could be one of the toughest in football,” Arnold said. “Iraq has not qualified for four decades, and with 46 million passionate fans, the pressure is immense. Managing that expectation has been a unique challenge.”

Iraq’s World Cup Journey

Arnold recalls leading Australia to the 2005 World Cup and the nationwide excitement it generated. “The emotion in Iraq is similar. The people live for football. I have faced Iraqi teams for years—they have always been formidable opponents. Imagine that same team missing the World Cup for four decades. That’s the magnitude of what we are attempting.”

Decades of political turbulence have repeatedly obstructed Iraqi football. U.S. intervention, domestic unrest, and the execution of former President Saddam Hussein disrupted player development. Even after their 2007 Asian Cup triumph, progress remained fragile.

To maintain focus, Arnold has restricted players’ access to social media and carefully managed their public exposure. “Much of my first ten months here—seven spent in Baghdad—has been about understanding the culture. Wherever I go, fans surround me, taking photos. Ordinary social life does not exist here,” he explained.

After Iraq’s dramatic stoppage-time win against the United Arab Emirates in November, Baghdad erupted with celebrations. “The players’ dedication is extraordinary. They play not just to win, but to inspire the nation,” Arnold added.

With one decisive match remaining, Iraq stands on the brink of a historic return to the World Cup, offering a unifying moment for a nation long shaped by struggle.