As expected, Iraq’s final group game with Iran proved to be a tense affair for both teams. Although Iraq came closest to snatching a crucial win, Iran dominated for the majority of the 90 minutes and managed to hold onto top spot in a tough group. It was anticipated that Katanec would field a weakened team going into the Iran game in order to rest … Continue reading Asian Cup 2019 Match Review: Iraq 0-0 Iran
Ali Adnan’s heroics in the final minute of the Vietnam match put Iraq within touching distance of the second round of the the 2019 Asian Cup. Although it was not a great performance, the three points were all that mattered as it allowed Iraq to enter their game against Yemen with the possibility of qualifying to the final 16 with a match to spare. Katanec … Continue reading Asian Cup 2019 Match Review: Iraq 3-0 Yemen
Katanec’s team selection was leaked a few days prior to kickoff, with his starting XI posted all across the internet. His selection was a surprise to many, given how attacking it appeared to be. Iraq started with a back three of Ali Faez, Ahmed Ibrahim and Frans Putros, with Walid Salim and Ali Adnan providing width as wing backs. The midfield of Osama Rashid, Safaa … Continue reading 2019 Asian Cup Match Review: Iraq 3-2 Vietnam
Fans are well aware of the difficulties currently plaguing the Iraqi national team yet expectations are still high as ever for the Lions of Mesopotamia. Despite the constant changing of managers, lack of long-term strategic planning and an inept FA, Katanec still possess an abundance of quality at his disposal. It would be unfair on the manager to expect the national side to compete in … Continue reading Asian Cup 2019 Preview – How Will Iraq Do Under Katanec?
The first of two friendlies, Iraq took on a second-string Argentina side that still possessed enormous quality. It was a tough game for Kalanic to start his reign as Iraqi manager, but it did not stop him from experimenting with the side, bringing in the likes of Osama, Yasin, Justin, Bashar, Mohanad Ali and Mohammed Dawood. The game went exactly as expected, with Argentina completely … Continue reading Match Review: Iraq 0-4 Argentina & Iraq 1-1 Saudi Arabia
With the transfer window open in Europe, there has been a surge of Iraqi players linked with several clubs in the region. Humam Tariq was recently in Turkey undergoing negotiations with second-tier club Elazığspor. The midfielder was previously set to sign with the club in January, but the transfer fell through in the last moment when Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya demanded a hefty transfer fee, which the … Continue reading Exclusive: Humam Tariq, Safaa Hadi and Muhanad Ali Kadhim All Linked With Turkish Clubs
Memories of Yaser Kasim making his debut for Iraq against China are now a distant memory for Iraqi fans. Then the star of Swindon, the Iraqi proved pivotal for the Lions of Mesopotamia, who outplayed their opponents in the crucial 2015 Asian Cup qualifier. Despite the two goals from Younis Mahmoud and another from Ali Adnan, Yaser walked away as the game’s hero. His calming … Continue reading Osama Rashid & Yaser Kasim – A Tale Of Two Sides
Now that FIFA have finally lifted their ban on Iraq hosting international matches, both the Iraqi FA and Ministry of Youth and Sport have been keen on arranging several friendlies for their eager fans. Monday will see Iraq take on Palestine in yet another home game for Iraq, where the FA can showcase their ability to successfully welcome international teams on Iraqi soil. The Basra … Continue reading The Unveiling Of Najaf’s 30,000 Capacity Stadium To Signal A New Chapter For Iraqi Football
Australia has a long-standing history with Iraqi football and Mario Shabow is the latest player caught in the crossways between the two nations. Soon to be 20 years old, the youngster has settled down in Australia and has represented their U20 national team 13 times with 5 goals to his name. He was born in Baghdad, Iraq, to Assyrian parents and moved to Australia at … Continue reading Introducing A-League’s Mario Shabow – Iraq’s Potential Midfield Prodigy
Decades of torment and instability have left football as a final glimmer of hope that continues to unify Iraqis against all odds. FIFA’s decision to sanction Saddam Hussain following his invasion of Kuwait in 1990 resulted in Iraq being banned from hosting international matches. Nearly three decades on from the initial ban, Iraqis will be delighted to see FIFA finally lift that ban on their homeland. … Continue reading FIFA Finally Lifts The Ban On Iraq Hosting International Football
