Iraq arrived at the 2026 World Cup for the first time in four decades, led by Australian coach Graham Arnold, 62, who took the position in May 2025 after resigning from his Australia national team role. Arnold was brought in to rebuild a squad that had sacked coach Jesús Casas and his entire staff following a 2-1 defeat to Palestine in the third round of Asian qualification.
Arnold's path to Mexico involved extraordinary obstacles. While Iraq completed the Asian playoff by defeating Ukraine and Poland, the coach spent periods stuck in Dubai watching conflict unfold, while Iraq's squad was trapped between Baghdad and Jordan as missiles flew around them. Upon arrival in Mexico, further complications emerged as the player whose goal secured World Cup qualification was held up by the FBI, and the photographer assigned to document Iraq's historic return was turned back.
Arnold acknowledged initial skepticism: 'At first the family wasn't that supportive and friends were worried because of the perception of Iraq.' Yet he remained committed to the opportunity, declaring upon arrival in Chicago: 'It's been an experience. Now it's time to show the world what we've got. We're capable of doing something that will shock the world.' His calm confidence and immediate rapport with the squad—who reportedly call him their other 'dad'—suggest strong internal cohesion heading into group matches.
Arnold brings significant international experience, having previously coached Australia's national team. Iraq's historic return after 40 years away represents one of the tournament's most compelling narratives. Despite being ranked among outsiders, Arnold's evident belief in the team's potential and the squad's unity suggest Iraq intends to compete meaningfully rather than merely participate in the finals.
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