Iraq

Where to Watch – Streaming Options

ServiceTypeCostDetails
Al-Iraqiya (IMN) Free IQD 0 Iraq's state broadcaster Al-Iraqiya (Iraq Media Network) airs all national team fixtures free-to-air in Arabic, including Group I matches vs Norway (June 16, Boston), vs France (June 22, Philadelphia) and vs Senegal (June 26, Toronto). Available via free satellite and the Al-Iraqiya website. Iraq's first World Cup since 1986 — a landmark tournament.
beIN Sports Paid Est. ~$15–20 USD/month Exclusive MENA rights holder for all 104 World Cup matches. Arabic and English commentary across beIN Sports HD and MAX channels. Available via satellite and cable operators in Iraq. Contact your local operator for current pricing and World Cup packages.
TOD TV Paid ~$11 USD/month (MENA rate) beIN Sports Group's streaming platform with all 104 matches live and on-demand. No satellite dish required — stream via the TOD TV app on iOS, Android, Smart TVs and web. Arabic and English commentary. The most practical digital option for Iraqi fans who prefer app-based viewing.
Iraq National Football Team – FIFA Ranking #58 · World Cup 2026
FIFA Ranking
#58[1]
World Cup Appearances
1986 · 2026
Best Result
Group Stage
1986 · 2026 debut

Country

  • CapitalBaghdad
  • Population~42 million
  • ContinentAsia
  • ConfederationAFC
  • National associationIFA – Iraqi Football Association

World Cup history

  • Titles: 0
    Iraq has never won the FIFA World Cup
  • Total appearances: 2[2]
    A 40-year wait between appearances — Iraq's return to the World Cup is one of the tournament's most remarkable stories
  • 1986
    Group stage — sole previous appearance
    Iraq's only prior World Cup, held in Mexico — they lost all three group games but the appearance remains a proud moment in Iraqi football history
  • 2026
    Intercontinental playoff victory[3]
    Qualified as the final of 48 nations — beat Bolivia 2–1 in the dramatic intercontinental playoff in Mexico, with Aymen Hussein's winner sealing a historic moment for an entire nation
  • Group K
    Iraq enter with nothing to lose and the weight of a nation's pride behind them

Head coach

JC
Jesús Casas
Spanish coach[4]

Spanish coach who guided Iraq through the gruelling intercontinental playoff campaign in Mexico, including the dramatic 2–1 victory over Bolivia that sealed Iraq's place as the 48th and final qualified nation. Has built a disciplined, tactically organised side that maximises collective effort and is capable of the kind of determined defensive performance needed to compete at this level.[5]

Key players

Striker

Aymen Hussein ↗

The national hero — scored the winning goal against Bolivia to seal Iraq's historic qualification. A striker with AFC Champions League experience who carries the hopes and emotion of an entire nation into every match at this tournament.

Midfielder

Amjad Attwan ↗

Experienced central midfielder and creative force who provides the technical quality and leadership Iraq need in the centre of the pitch. Brings composure, vision and the ability to control the tempo of matches.

Winger

Bashar Resan ↗

Pacey and direct winger who can hurt teams in transition with his explosive pace and individual ability. Capable of moments of brilliance on the counter-attack — the most dangerous outlet when Iraq absorb pressure and break quickly.

Goalkeeper

Jalal Hassan ↗

Veteran goalkeeper and the most experienced player in the squad. His composure, command of his area and shot-stopping quality have been crucial throughout qualification — the calm, authoritative presence Iraq's backline relies on.

© 2026 Iraq Football Team Profile