Iraq
The story
Qualified through a competitive confederation campaign with a balanced squad of European-based regulars and emerging domestic talent.
How they got here
Snuck through the AFC fourth-round play-off after the heartbreak of 2022.
Expectations
Targeting a place in the knockout round and the chance to spoil a favorite's run.
Manager & key players
Group I
Upcoming matches
Latest news & commentary
updated daily- Aug 1Press
Local press has zeroed in on midfield balance — depth behind the regular starters remains the open question.
- Jul 30Fan
Ticket allocations for Iraq's opener were oversubscribed in under an hour, federation officials confirmed.
- Jul 28Camp
Iraq open their pre-tournament camp this week with a full-squad fitness block before the first friendly.
- Jul 26Build-up
Iraq take on a friendly opponent at home next week — a final dress rehearsal before the tournament window opens.
- Jul 24Form
Iraq have lost just one of their last ten competitive fixtures heading into the tournament.