Iraq brings emerging talent and competitive spirit to the 2026 World Cup. A young squad with players developing at decent clubs offers potential if they execute their system.
Experience and Development
Jalal Hassan provides goalkeeping, while the defense features athleticism and emerging talent. Competitive depth defines the back line structure.
Midfield Energy
Iraq’s midfield provides pressing intensity and technical quality. Young players bring energy while seeking to control tempo.
Attack: Youth and Pace
Young forwards bring pace and directness. The attacking line seeks counter-attacking opportunities through pressing discipline.
Projected 26-Man Squad
Goalkeepers (3): Jalal Hassan, Mohammed Farhan, Khalid Aziz
Defenders (8): Ali Adnan, Ahmed Ibrahim, Sami Al-Jaber, Ali Al-Hamadi, Muntather Yocoub, Sadio Mané, Ali Jasim, Mustafa Merzah
Midfielders (8): Safee Al-Din, Ahmed Al-Lami, Nuaman Ameen, Amjed Attiyah, Samir Beidas, Ahmed Radhi, Mahmoud Al-Mawas, Safa Kadhim
Forwards (7): Ali Adnan, Safee Al-Din, Ahmed Radhi, Mustafa Qadri, Mahmoud Al-Mawas, Samir Beidas, Yohanna Issa
Note: Squad projection subject to form and availability. Official squad announced May 2026.
Verdict: Iraq’s Chances
Iraq will struggle to qualify from their group. They lack the quality to challenge established nations but are capable of taking points from weaker teams.
Full coverage at the World Cup 2026 hub and the Iraq national team profile.