Iraq coach Graham Arnold says his team will take a fighting spirit to the 2026 World Cup after ending a 40 year wait to reach football’s biggest stage.
Iraq booked their place in the expanded 48 team tournament after beating Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff final in Mexico last month. It will be their first World Cup appearance since 1986.
Arnold believes Iraq must carry strong belief into a very difficult Group I campaign.
He called it the toughest group in the tournament after Iraq were drawn with Norway, France and Senegal.
“We work together as a family and we go to the World Cup believing we can make Iraq proud,” Arnold said.
Iraq start their campaign against Norway on June 16. They then face 2022 finalists France on June 22 before taking on Senegal four days later.
Arnold said Norway will be a serious challenge but facing top sides like France will also give his players valuable experience on the world stage.
“Norway is our first focus and we are getting ready for that game. Then we face the best team in the world, France. It will be a great experience,” he said.
The former Asian champions will continue their build up with friendly matches against Andorra on May 29 and Spain on June 4.
Arnold made it clear what he wants from his players.
“What I expect from the Iraqi boys is that Iraqi mentality of fighting. We fight for every minute.”
