From being shepherded out of Iraq as a baby to growing up on the mean streets of Toxteth in Liverpool, Iraqi striker Ali al-Hamadi’s journey to the World Cup has been challenging. The 24-year-old will draw on all the qualities he has accrued from his tough upbringing when he tries to extend his country’s stay […]
iraq
Posted inSoccer America Confidential
I learned the power of soccer in Baghdad. Monterrey let me relive it.
I’ve tried to balance being an Iraqi-American. It’s often hard to feel both simultaneously; it’s usually one or the other. I’ve been away from home for almost two decades, and it’s the national team that connects me to my people.
Posted inSoccer America Daily
Iraq plots ‘shock’ as win seals World Cup return after 40 years
Coach Graham Arnold challenged his players to “shock the world” after Iraq became the 48th and final team to qualify for the World Cup with a nerve-shredding 2-1 win over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff in Mexico on Tuesday. Iraq, whose preparations were disrupted by the war in the Middle East, sealed their first appearance […]
Posted inSoccer America Daily
Iraq coach shielding players from war ahead of World Cup bid
Iraq coach Graham Arnold said Monday he is trying to shield his squad from news of the war in the Middle East as they prepare for a crunch 2026 World Cup playoff against Bolivia. Arnold’s Iraq-based players were forced to train and travel under the shadow of conflict embroiling the region, and arrived in Mexico […]