Iraq's 2026 World Cup Squad: The Lions of Mesopotamia Roar Back After 40 Years

Iraq's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is one of the most remarkable comebacks in the history of international football. The Lions of Mesopotamia return to the tournament for the first time since Mexico 1986 — a 40-year absence that ends in a group alongside France, Senegal, and Norway. For a nation that has endured war, sanctions, and decades of instability, reaching the World Cup is nothing short of miraculous.

40 Years Away

Iraq's only World Cup appearance came in 1986 in Mexico, where they were eliminated in the group stage. In the four decades since, the nation has lived through the Gulf War, the 2003 invasion, the rise and fall of ISIS, and ongoing political turbulence that made organised football almost impossible at various points. That Iraq's national team not only survived but qualified for the 2026 World Cup is a story of extraordinary resilience.

The Intercontinental Playoff Victory

Iraq secured their 2026 World Cup place through the intercontinental playoff — beating competition from other confederations to claim one of the final two berths available. Their playoff victory was celebrated with scenes of national joy across Baghdad and Iraqi communities worldwide. It was the moment a generation of Iraqi football fans had been waiting their entire lives to witness.

Group I: France, Senegal, Norway

Iraq face France, Senegal, and Norway in Group I — a group that represents an enormous challenge for a returning nation. Their match against Norway at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City on June 16 is the most realistic opportunity for points. Against France and Senegal — two of the tournament's most dangerous sides — Iraq will need to channel the spirit that carried them through qualification and make the moments count.

Football as National Pride

Iraq won the 2007 AFC Asian Cup — one of the most emotionally powerful sporting achievements in modern history, celebrated in the streets of Baghdad despite ongoing conflict. That same national pride drives the Lions of Mesopotamia in 2026. At +250000 in the tournament odds, they are not expected to go deep — but they are there, and for Iraq and its people, that is everything.