Incubator escapee wiki

Iraq national football team

Article Discussion

Template:Short description Template:About Template:Use dmy dates

{{#invoke:Infobox|infobox}}Template:Template other{{#invoke:Check for unknown parameters|check|unknown=Template:Main other|preview=Page using Template:Infobox national football team with unknown parameter "_VALUE_"|ignoreblank=y| 2ndRegional cup apps | 2ndRegional cup best | 2ndRegional cup first | 2ndRegional name | 3rdRegional cup apps | 3rdRegional cup best | 3rdRegional cup first | 3rdRegional name | 4thRegional cup apps | 4thRegional cup best | 4thRegional cup first | 4thRegional name | American | Association | Badge | Badge_size | body1 | body2 | body3 | BSWW Rank | Captain | Coach | Confederation | Confederations cup apps | Confederations cup best | Confederations cup first | Current | date | Elo max | Elo max date | Elo max year | Elo min | Elo min date | Elo min year | Elo Rank | FIFA max | FIFA max date | FIFA max year | FIFA min | FIFA min date | FIFA min year | FIFA Rank | FIFA Trigramme | filetype | filetype1 | filetype2 | filetype3 | First game | Home Stadium | Largest loss | Largest win | Last game | leftarm1 | leftarm2 | leftarm3 | medaltemplates | medaltemplates-expand | Most caps | Name | Nickname | Only game | Other-affiliation | pattern_b1 | pattern_b2 | pattern_b3 | pattern_la1 | pattern_la2 | pattern_la3 | pattern_name1 | pattern_name2 | pattern_name3 | pattern_ra1 | pattern_ra2 | pattern_ra3 | pattern_sh1 | pattern_sh2 | pattern_sh3 | pattern_so1 | pattern_so2 | pattern_so3 | Regional cup apps | Regional cup best | Regional cup first | Regional name | rightarm1 | rightarm2 | rightarm3 | shorts1 | shorts2 | shorts3 | socks1 | socks2 | socks3 | Sub-confederation | Top scorer | Type | type | U17WC apps | U17WC best | U17WC first | U20WC apps | U20WC best | U20WC first | UEFAu21Champ apps | UEFAu21Champ best | UEFAu21Champ first | Upright |website | World cup apps | World cup best | World cup first }}

The Iraq national football team (Template:Langx) represents Iraq in men's international football and is controlled by the Iraq Football Association (IFA), the governing body for football in Iraq. Iraq's usual home venue is the Basra International Stadium.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq have made one FIFA World Cup appearance in 1986, scoring a solitary goal against Belgium. Iraq are one of eight current AFC nations to have won the AFC Asian Cup, claiming the title in 2007 in spite of difficult conditions and limited preparation. Iraq defeated some of the favourites in the competition including Australia, South Korea and Saudi Arabia. This qualified them for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup where they earned two points in the group stage; they later finished fourth at the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq are the Arab Cup's most successful team with four titles, and have also won the Arabian Gulf Cup four times and the WAFF Championship once.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq is known for its passionate football fans and the national team is seen as a symbol of hope and unity for Iraqi people.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The team reached its highest FIFA World Ranking of 39th in October 2004.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

HistoryEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

Early yearsEdit

File:Iraqi Football National team 1951.jpg
The Iraqi national football team in 1951; they played two games in the Turkish cities of İzmir and Ankara.

On 8 October 1948, the Iraq Football Association was founded.<ref name="Iraqi Football History">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The Iraq FA joined FIFA in 1950 and in April 1951, Iraq played their first match: a 5–0 win over the Civil Cantonment (CC) team of Habbaniyah.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="Iraqi Football History"/> Iraq's first ever official international game came in the opening game of the 1957 Arab Games in Beirut where Iraq drew 3–3 to Morocco with goals from Ammo Baba, Youra Eshaya (both from Iraq's Assyrian minority) and Fakhri Mohammed Salman.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="Iraqi Football History"/> One of the members of Iraq's first national team was Youra Eshaya, who in 1954 became the first Iraqi footballer to play in England for Bristol Rovers Colts.Template:Citation needed

In 1962, Iraq appointed their first foreign manager, Romanian coach Cornel Drăgușin. Iraq won their first trophy in 1964 when they won the Arab Cup, winning three and drawing one of their four games. In the following edition, they retained their Arab Cup title, beating Syria 2–1 in the final in Baghdad.<ref name="Iraqi Football History"/>

1970sEdit

In 1972, Iraq played at their first ever AFC Asian Cup but failed to win a game in the tournament. In March 1973, Iraq played their first ever FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. They finished second in their group, a point behind Australia, therefore failing to qualify for the next round. In the remaining years of the 1970s, Iraq reached the second round of the Asian Games (1974), lost the Arabian Gulf Cup final (1976), finished fourth at the AFC Asian Cup (1976), finished fourth in the Asian Games (1978) and finally hosted and won the Arabian Gulf Cup (1979).<ref name="Trophies">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The 1976 Asian Cup would be the last Asian Cup that Iraq appeared in for the next 20 years, as they withdrew from the next four editions.

1980s – First Golden GenerationEdit

The 1980s was arguably Iraq's most successful period in their history. They started the decade off disappointingly, being knocked out in the first round of qualifiers for the 1982 FIFA World Cup. In 1982, they won the gold medal at the 1982 Asian Games. In 1984, Iraq won the Arabian Gulf Cup. The following year, they won the 1985 Arab Cup and also won the gold medal at the 1985 Arab Games.Template:Citation needed

1986 FIFA World CupEdit

Iraq were seeded into the first round of qualifiers where they faced Qatar and Jordan. Iraq topped Group 1B with 6 points, and advanced to the second round. Iraq faced United Arab Emirates in two legs. Iraq defeated UAE 3–2 in Dubai. Iraq lost with 2–1 to UAE in the second leg. Iraq won 4–4 aggregate on away goals and advanced to the final round. In the final round, Iraq tied Syria 0–0 in Damascus. Iraq defeated Syria 3–1 in the second leg in Taif. Iraq won 3–1 on aggregate and qualified to the 1986 FIFA World Cup.Template:Citation needed

At their first game of the Group B at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, Iraq played well against Paraguay, losing narrowly 1–0 despite scoring a goal that was controversially disallowed by the referee. Iraq recorded their first World Cup goal in the second game, scoring against Belgium in a 1–2 defeat despite having ten men, with Ahmed Radhi scoring a goal for Iraq.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq played against hosts Mexico in the third game, losing 1–0 and being eliminated from the World Cup.Template:Citation needed

In the following years, Iraq won the 1988 Arabian Gulf Cup and won the 1988 Arab Cup. Overall, Iraq won nine competitions in the 1980s and played in their only World Cup, leading many to believe that this was the golden era of Iraqi football. In 1989, Iraq competed in qualifying for a berth in the 1990 World Cup finals, but they lost a crucial game against Qatar.Template:Citation needed

1990s – The Dark EraEdit

Following the Gulf War in 1990, Iraq was banned from participating in the Asian Games and in most Arab competitions. The ban wasn't extended to the Asian Cup and World Cup.

1994 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

In 1993, Iraq participated in qualifiers for the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Grouped with China, Yemen, Jordan and Pakistan in the first stage, Iraq proved to be too strong for the rest, with the team only failing to win twice, a draw to Jordan and loss to China.Template:Citation needed

In the final round, Iraq was grouped with Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Japan, Iran and North Korea.Template:Citation needed On the first matchday, Iraq lost 3–2 to North Korea in a dramatic way, being 2–0 ahead in the second half. After an Iraqi player was sent off, North Korea pulled back in the 67th minute, equalized in the 77th minute and scored the winner in the 82nd minute.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> They then tied 2–2 with South Korea.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and then defeated Iran 2–1 by goals of Ahmed Radhi and Alaa Kadhim.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq missed out on a World Cup spot by two points. By drawing their last game with Japan 2–2, they denied the Japanese a place in the finals in a match referred to by the Japanese media as the Agony of Doha.<ref name="Agony of Doha">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The loss against North Korea proved to be the difference with the other teams, as North Korea lost their other 4 matches and finished bottom of the group.Template:Citation needed

1996 AFC Asian CupEdit

Iraq participated in the 1996 AFC Asian Cup, their first Asian Cup campaign for 20 years of withdrawing from the previous four. They reached the quarter-finals but lost to the United Arab Emirates due to a golden goal scored by Abdulrahman Ibrahim. In 1996, Iraq was ranked 139th in the world, which is their worst FIFA ranking in their history due to inactivity after withdrawing from several tournaments.

In 1997, Iraq participated in qualifiers for the 1998 FIFA World Cup but were knocked out at the first round following two defeats by Kazakhstan.Template:Citation needed

This period is known as 'The Dark Era' as Uday Hussein, the son of Saddam Hussein and then-president of IFA, abused his control of Iraqi football and tortured players who played poorly, punishing them by sending them to prison, making them bathe in raw sewage and kick concrete balls, and shaving their heads among many other punishments.<ref name="Uday">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2000s – Second Golden GenerationEdit

The 2000s was considered to be the rebirth of a new Iraqi football golden generation. However, Iraq had a rocky beginning.

2000 AFC Asian CupEdit

Iraq played in the 2000 AFC Asian Cup but were knocked out at the quarter-final stage again, this time by Japan in a 4–1 loss.Template:Citation needed

2002 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

Iraq reached the final round of 2002 FIFA World Cup qualification for the first time since 1994 but lost five of their eight second-round games and therefore failed to make the finals.Template:Citation needed

Iraq won their first ever WAFF Championship in 2002, beating Jordan 3–2 in the final after extra time.Template:Citation needed

2004 AFC Asian CupEdit

In 2004, Iraq lost the opening match against Uzbekistan then they won against Turkmenistan and Saudi Arabia respectively, to reach the quarter-finals of the AFC Asian Cup before getting knocked out by China.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2006 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

In the same year they were knocked out at the second round of 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers by Uzbekistan.Template:Citation needed

Iraq were ranked as high as 39th in the World Rankings in October 2004 which is their highest ranking position in their history. The following year, Iraq won the gold medal in the West Asian Games by beating Syria in the final via a penalty shootout. In 2007, Iraq were knocked out at the group stage of the Arabian Gulf Cup after a controversial defeat to Saudi Arabia.<ref name="Gulf Cup 2007">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Akram Salman was sacked and Jorvan Vieira appointed as head coach. Under him, Iraq reached the final of the WAFF Championship but lost 2–1 to Iran.Template:Citation needed

2007 AFC Asian Cup triumphEdit

File:Asian Cup Australia-Iraq II.jpg
Iraq playing against Australia in Group A of the 2007 AFC Asian Cup; Iraq won the game 3–1 on their way to winning the cup.

In July 2007, Iraq kicked off their 2007 AFC Asian Cup campaign. The squad was made mainly of players that won the 2000 AFC Youth Championship, finished fourth at the 2004 Olympic Games and second at the 2006 Asian Games. Vieira only had two months to prepare his team for the tournament, and the team suffered from very poor facilities. The Iraq FA struggled to provide the team with enough kits for the tournament and Iraq had not been able to play any previous games in their own country for security reasons and most of the players had had family members killed in the war.<ref name=":0">Template:Cite news</ref>

The team started the tournament with a 1–1 draw against joint-hosts Thailand before producing a 3–1 win over favourites Australia. A draw with Oman followed to put Iraq into the quarter-finals where two goals from Younis Mahmoud against Vietnam put Iraq into the semi-finals for the second time in their history. They manages to knock out one of the best Asian teams, South Korea in the semis via a penalty shootout in which Noor Sabri made a crucial save.<ref name=":0" /> After the game, a suicide bomber killed 30 football fans who were celebrating the semi-final win over South Korea and this almost led to the Iraqi team withdrawing from the final,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> but they decided to go on in honour of the dead and succeeded in doing that after defeating Saudi Arabia 1–0 in the final, a game that they dominated from start to finish and that was won by a Younis Mahmoud header. This tournament win is seen as one of the greatest upsets in international history as a war-torn country became international champions in what is described as one of sport's greatest 'fairytales'.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Vieira stated during the final that he would resign after the Asian Cup.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He was replaced by Egil Olsen in September 2007.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2010 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

Under Egil Olsen, Iraq advanced from the first round by beating Pakistan 7–0 on aggregate. Then they were drawn with Australia, China, and Qatar for the second round.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On the first matchday, Iraq tied China. As a consequence, Olsen was sacked and replaced by Adnan Hamad.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

The next two matches saw Iraq lose twice to Qatar and Australia. However, Iraq bounced back with an 1–0 win on Australia and 2–1 win against China.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

On 26 May 2008, FIFA decided to suspend Iraq from all international competitions after the Iraq Football Association was disbanded by the government on 20 May 2008.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Dead link</ref> The suspension was provisionally and conditionally lifted on 29 May 2008.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq needed 1 point to advance to the final stage on the last matchday, but failed to advance to the final round of 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as a 1–0 defeat to Qatar saw them finish in third in the group. Following this, the Iraq FA decided to disband the team and sacked Hamad.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Qatar fielded ineligible player Emerson in the 2–0 defeat to Iraq on 26 March 2008, prompting FIFA to controversially<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> suspend him but clear Qatar of any wrongdoing, in direct contradiction to its decisions against Singapore. Iraq appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport but it was rejected by the CAS, saying that Iraq submitted documents and appeal fees too late.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Jorvan Vieira was reappointed in September 2008. After a disappointing 2009 Arabian Gulf Cup, Vieira was sacked and replaced by Bora Milutinovic.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2009 FIFA Confederations CupEdit

In 2009, Iraq participated in only their second FIFA tournament ever: the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, which they qualified for by winning the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. They started the tournament with a 0–0 draw with hosts South Africa, before losing 1–0 to UEFA Euro 2008 winners Spain. Iraq drew the last game 0–0 with New Zealand and were knocked out.

On 20 November 2009, the FIFA Emergency Committee suspended the Iraq FA due to government interference;<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> the suspension was lifted on 19 March 2010.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2010s – Ups and downsEdit

File:Iraq national football team 2011.jpg
The Iraqi national team pose ahead of their 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification match against China in Doha.

2011 AFC Asian CupEdit

Iraq qualified automatically for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup. They were drawn against Iran, North Korea and UAE in Group D. After a 2–1 loss against Iran, and 1–0 win against UAE, Iraq went into the match against North Korea needing only a draw to progress. Iraq won 1–0 and advanced to the quarterfinals as group runners-up. On 23 January, Iraq lost to Australia, 1–0, in the quarterfinal. The match went into extra time with Harry Kewell heading in a goal in the 117th minute just inside the 18-yard box.Template:Citation needed

2014 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

Under coach Wolfgang Sidka, Iraq were drawn into the second round of qualifiers where they faced Yemen. Iraq defeated Yemen 2–0 in Arbil on 23 July before drawing 0–0 in Al Ain five days later. Iraq advanced to the third round of qualifiers where they were grouped with Jordan, China and Singapore. The IFA announced it would not renew Wolfgang Sidka's contract on 2 August 2011.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 29 August 2011, Brazilian legend Zico signed a one-year contract to become the new coach of Iraq.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq topped Group A with 15 points, and in the final qualification stage was drawn with Jordan, Japan, Australia and Oman. Iraq started with 1–1 draws against Jordan away and Oman at home. After their slow start, Iraq lost 1–0 to Japan away and lost a crucial home match against Australia 2–1, moving them into bottom position with 2 points. On 14 November 2012, Iraq won 1–0 against Jordan in Doha which elevated them to third in Group B, behind Australia on goal difference and ahead of Oman.Template:Citation needed

On 28 November 2012, Zico resigned as head coach.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The Iraqi FA appointed Vladimir Petrović as his replacement on 25 February 2013.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> However, on 11 June 2013, Iraq lost 1–0 to Japan in Doha and were eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2015 AFC Asian CupEdit

Iraq were in a 2015 AFC Asian Cup qualifying group alongside Saudi Arabia, China and Indonesia. After losing consecutively against China and Saudi Arabia, Iraq was in danger of missing out on the Asian Cup. They kept alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup with a 2–0 away win over Indonesia on 19 November 2013, and on the last matchday, Iraq booked their spot with a commanding 3–1 win at the Sharjah Stadium against China. Due to bad results at the 22nd Arabian Gulf Cup, Hakeem Shaker was sacked and the FA appointed Radhi Shenaishil as caretaker coach.

Iraq began the 2015 AFC Asian Cup campaign with a 1–0 win over Jordan.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In the next match, Iraq faced Japan and lost the match 0–1.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq then beat Palestine 2–0 and qualified to knockout stage as the Group D runner-up.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq defeated Iran in the quarter-finals in penalties, 7–6, after the game ended 3–3 after 120 minutes of play.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> They faced South Korea in the semi-finals but lost 0–2.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq finished the AFC Asian Cup in fourth place, after losing 2–3 to United Arab Emirates in third/fourth place play-off.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2018 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

For the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Iraq were drawn with Thailand, Vietnam and Chinese Taipei.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In August 2015, Yahya Alwan was appointed coach for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> After initially starting well with a 5–1 win against Chinese Taipei, two consecutive draws against Thailand and Vietnam left Iraq in real danger of missing out on the final round. On 24 March 2016, Iraq tied 2–2 with Thailand and Alwan was replaced with Abdul-Ghani Shahad. Five days later, he led Iraq to the final round and 2019 AFC Asian Cup by beating Vietnam 1–0.Template:Citation needed

On 15 April 2016, Radhi Shenaishil became the new coach of Iraq in order to lead the team in the final round.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> For the final round, Iraq was drawn with Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Thailand. After seven matchdays, Iraq only managed to collect 4 points by beating Thailand and tie 1–1 with Australia. As a result, Shenaishil was sacked on April 10, 2017.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Basim Qasim was appointed for the remainder of the qualifiers and Iraq finished fifth in the final round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification.

File:IRN-IRQ 20190116 Asian Cup 24.jpg
The Iraqi national team pose ahead of their 2019 AFC Asian Cup match against Iran in Dubai.

2019 AFC Asian CupEdit

The 2019 Asian Cup draw put Iraq in Group D, with Iran, Vietnam, and Yemen.<ref name="SWAFCqual19">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

On 3 September 2018, Srečko Katanec was appointed as head coach on a three-year contract to lead Iraq in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup and 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Their first match took place on 8 January 2019 against Vietnam and ended in a 3–2 victory for Iraq.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Their second match against Yemen on January 12 ended in a 3–0 victory, with goals coming from Mohanad Ali, Bashar Resan, and Alaa Abbas. In their final group game, Iraq faced Iran on January 16, resulting in a 0–0 draw. With these performances, Iraq finished second in Group D and advanced to the knockout stage.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

In the Round of 16, Iraq faced Qatar. Despite their efforts, Iraq suffered a 1–0 defeat, with Bassam Al-Rawi scoring the only goal, ending their journey in the tournament. Qatar later won the tournament.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2020sEdit

2022 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

Iraq participated in the second round of the Asian qualifiers. They were placed in Group C alongside Bahrain, Iran, Cambodia, and Hong Kong and reached the final round with five wins from eight matches including a 2–1 victory against Iran.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq went 19 consecutive matches without losing between 2019 and 2021 and moved up from 89th to 68th in the FIFA rankings during Katanec's tenure. Katanec departed in July 2021 after six months of unpaid wages and filed a complaint with FIFA.Template:Citation needed

On 31 July 2021, Dutchman Dick Advocaat was appointed head coach of Iraq.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Under Advocaat, Iraq made to a slow start to the final round of World Cup Qualifiers, drawing four games and losing two, and on 21 November 2021, Advocaat resigned. Željko Petrović took charge of the team for the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup, where Iraq were eliminated from the group stage. Petrović was sacked after two further winless qualifying games and Abdul-Ghani Shahad was appointed as an interim manager, but Iraq were eliminated after finishing fourth in the group.

2023 AFC Asian CupEdit

Iraq was drawn in Group D, with Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 15 January 2024, Iraq overcame Indonesia 3–1.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Four days later, Iraq created the biggest shock in the tournament, stunning Japan (who had been undefeated in the last 11 matches) by beating them 2–1 in the second group match to ensure first place in the group; both Iraq goals were scored by Aymen Hussein.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> With the outcome confirmed, Iraq largely rotated their squad on the final match against Vietnam, and ended up triumphant 3–2 to make history by earning a perfect record of nine points.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> However, Iraq suffered a shock defeat in the Round of 16, losing 2–3 to Jordan to exit the tournament. The result was controversial due to a second yellow card shown to Aymen Hussein by the referee for his celebration after he had scored to take a 2–1 lead.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

2026 FIFA World Cup qualificationEdit

On 7 November 2022, Jesús Casas was appointed head coach of Iraq to lead the national team until the 2026 FIFA World Cup.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In the first tournament under Casas' leadership, Iraq hosted and won the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup, beating Oman 3–2 after extra time in the final.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Iraq was placed in Group F of the second round alongside Vietnam, Philippines and Indonesia.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> After four wins in a row against Indonesia, Vietnam and back to back wins against Philippines, Iraq progressed to the next round and qualified for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Team imageEdit

KitEdit

Template:Sister project The Iraqi national football team's traditional home colour is green, while the away colour is white and the third colour is black. Iraq's kits have previously been manufactured by brands such as Puma, Nike, Diadora, Jack & Jones, Lotto, Peak, Givova, Umbro and Adidas. The current kit supplier is Jako.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Kit suppliersEdit

Kit supplier Period
Template:Flagdeco Umbro citation CitationClass=web

}}</ref>

Template:Flagdeco Adidas citation CitationClass=web

}}</ref>

Template:Flagdeco Puma 1996
Template:Flagdeco Patrick 2000
Template:Flagdeco Jako citation CitationClass=web

}}</ref> 2024–present<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

CitationClass=web

}}</ref>

Template:Flagdeco Jack & Jones 2004–2006
Template:Flagdeco Diadora 2006
Template:Flagdeco Lotto 2006
Template:Flagdeco Peak 2008–2014
Template:Flagdeco Givova 2019–2020

NicknameEdit

File:Pergamon Museum Berlin 2007113.jpg
Lion in ceramic tile from the Ishtar Gate in Babylon

The Iraqi team is commonly known as Usood al-Rafidayn (Template:Langx), meaning "Lions of Mesopotamia". In ancient Mesopotamia, the Babylonian lion was a symbol of power, impetuosity, ferocity, prestige and dominance.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> This is reflected in the sculpted lions in Babylon, where the processional path is ornamented with ceramic tile bas-reliefs representing a prestigious lion from the time of Nebuchadnezzar II. This kind of representation aimed to glorify the king, master of the beasts, and also represent the defeat of the enemy.<ref>Brent A. Strawn (2005), "What is stronger than a lion? Leonine images and metaphor in the Hebrew Bible and the ancient Near East", Fribourg (CH)</ref> Moreover, the Mesopotamian royal inscriptions depict the king as a ferocious lion to whom nothing can be resisted.<ref>Christine Dumas-Reungoat (2003), "Créatures composites en Mésopotamie", Kentron, pp. 91–113</ref><ref>Breniquet Catherine (2002), "Animals in Mesopotamian art", in Collins B.J, A history of the animal world in ancient Near East, Leiden, Brill, 145-68</ref><ref>Elena Cassin (1981), "Revue de l'histoire des religions", Le roi et le lion, pp. 355–401</ref> The presence of lions in ancient Iraqi civilization was based on the belief, or desire, that the animals represented would bring with them the virtues they symbolized, so that they could be transmitted to the owners.<ref>Elena Cassin (1987), "Le semblable et le différent. Symbolisme du pouvoir dans le Proche-Orient ancien", Paris, Éd. La Découverte</ref>

Edit

Iraq kits throughout history have usually featured the flag of Iraq on them, although the coat of arms of Iraq and the Iraq Football Association logo have both appeared on kits in the past. The national team has occasionally had its own unique logo, the first of which was from 1982 to 1983. This logo was based on the Iraq flag, with Iraqi written at the top of the crest.<ref name="WC 1986">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> From 2000 to 2002, the national team's logo featured a green outline with the word Iraq written at the top in green Arabic text. In the 2005 West Asian Games, the team wore a new logo with the red band of the flag appearing in a large semi-circle shape,<ref name="WAG 2005">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and in 2007, Iraq briefly reverted to using the logo that they had used from 2000 to 2002. On 23 October 2020, the national team's current logo was revealed, with a star featuring above the crest from 2021 to 2022 to commemorate the nation's 2007 AFC Asian Cup victory.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Cbignore</ref>

  • Iraq national football team logo (1983).png

    1982–1983

  • Iraq National Team Logo (2007).png

    2000–2002,
    2007

  • Iraq West Asian Games Badge.png

    2005

  • Iraq National Team Badge 2021 v1.svg

    2020–2021,
    2022–present

  • Iraq National Team Badge 2021 v2.svg

    2021–2022

RivalriesEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

Due to its geographical location, Iraq maintains strong rivalries with many neighbours.

Iraq's main and traditional rival has been Iran, and they are often considered to be two of the greatest football teams in the Middle East and Asia with one of the greatest rivalries. At the early stage, Iran had proved to be more dominant than Iraq, remaining undefeated from 1964 until 1993. In the contemporary era, especially during the reign of Saddam Hussein, the two countries had bad relations and fought the Iran–Iraq War for eight years.<ref name="CNN">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="Iran Daily">Template:Cite news</ref> Iraqis have considered any matches against Iran as a must-win encounter and are known to treat it differently from any other football matches.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Iraq has played 31 matches against Iran with 6 victories, 7 draws, and 18 losses.

Iraq's other rival is Saudi Arabia, and matches between the two teams also draw significant attention from Iraqi fans, with Iraq and Saudi Arabia being recognised as the two most successful Arab teams in Asia. The beginnings of the footballing rivalry between them dates back to the 1970s, but it was only after the 1990s that the rivalry between the two Arab nations truly developed since it was previously overshadowed by Iraq's rivalries with Iran and Kuwait.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> One of these reasons for the rivalry to develop is due to the bitter Gulf War, where Iraq fought against Saudi Arabia over Kuwait, an ally of Saudi Arabia.<ref name=biz>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> These encounters have also been marred with various controversies and hostilities, such as the 21st Arabian Gulf Cup hosting rights, where Iraq was stripped from hosting with the tournament instead being moved to Bahrain, a move which was believed by Iraqis as a deliberate act by Saudi Arabia to remove Iraq's home advantage.<ref name=biz /> Before that, Iraq was also banned from hosting home games against Saudi Arabia due to the Gulf War.<ref name=biz /> Iraq has played 41 matches against Saudi Arabia with 18 victories, 11 draws, and 12 losses.

Iraq's rivalry with Kuwait was once considered the greatest football rivalry in the Middle East, until being taken over by Iraq's rivalry with Saudi Arabia due to Kuwait's decline. The rivalry began in the mid-1970s. Because of the Gulf War, Iraq and Kuwait were in complete avoidance and never met for more than 15 years until 2005. Iraq has played 39 matches against Kuwait with 17 victories, 12 draws, and 10 losses.

SupportersEdit

File:Iraq national football team wins Asia Cup (Edgeware Road).jpg
Iraqi fans in London celebrating Iraq winning the 2007 AFC Asian Cup

Iraq national team supporters are known for chanting "O Victorious Baghdad" ("منصورة يا بغداد") or "With our souls and our blood, we will redeem you, O Iraq" ("بالروح بالدم نفديك يا عراق") during the Iraqi team's matches.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Another famous chant is "the first goal is coming" ("هسه يجي الاول") which is chanted in the beginning of the match.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> A succeeding chant is "the second goal is coming" ("هسه يجي الثاني"); this is usually chanted repeatedly after Iraq score a goal to motivate the players to score another.

Home matches in IraqEdit

File:Basra International Stadium Opening.JPG
Basra International Stadium during the second opening friendly match between Al-Zawraa and Zamalek in 2013

Iraq primarily plays its home matches at Basra International Stadium but has also used various other venues across the country. Since 1980, FIFA has imposed bans on Iraq hosting competitive international matches on six occasions.

The first ban came in 1980 after fan and player violence during a match against Kuwait. Although lifted in 1982, the Iran–Iraq War led to a renewed ban. During this period, Iraq played home games at neutral venues but still qualified for the 1986 FIFA World Cup and three Olympic Games tournaments. The ban ended in 1988 after the war.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

A new ban followed the Gulf War in 1990 which lasted until 1995. Iraq hosted matches during the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifiers but was again forced to play abroad following the Iraq War in 2003. Home matches resumed in 2009, but security concerns led to another ban in 2011.<ref name="AFC green-light to Arbil as venue">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Between 2013 and 2018, Iraq hosted friendlies in Baghdad, Basra, and Karbala, culminating in FIFA lifting the ban in 2018. Basra hosted the 2018 AFC Cup Final,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> while the 2019 WAFF Championship was held in Karbala and Erbil.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> However, the Iraqi protests in 2019 led to another ban,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> forcing Iraq to play its home games at neutral venues during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In 2023, Iraq successfully hosted the Arabian Gulf Cup for the first time since 1979,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and resumed hosting official matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Results and fixturesEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} Template:Further The following is a list of match results in the last 12 months, as well as any future matches that have been scheduled.

Template:Legend2 Template:Legend2 Template:Legend2 Template:Legend2

2024Edit

Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible

2025Edit

Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible Template:Football box collapsible

2026Edit

Template:Football box collapsible

All-time resultsEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} Template:Updated

Coaching staffEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}As of 9 May 2025.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Position Name
Head coach Template:Flagicon Graham Arnold
Assistant coach Template:Flagicon René Meulensteen<ref>https://www.theaustralian.com.au/breaking-news/exsocceroos-boss-graham-arnold-given-task-of-securing-fifa-world-cup-qualification-for-iraq/news-story/17d16fcee1b4a5d55b77a461b043db50</ref>
Assistant coach Template:Flagicon Robert Stanton
Goalkeeping coach Template:Flagicon Zeljko Kalac
Fitness coach Template:Flagicon Chris Pappas
Match analyst Template:Flagicon Adam Barbera
Physiotherapist Brahim Boubaker(Aspetar)- Marouan Slim (Aspetar)
Chief medical officer Dr Mokhtar Chaabane (Aspetar)
Team doctor Dr Mourad Mokrani (Aspetar)
Team manager Template:Flagicon Mustafa Jalal
Interpreter Template:Flagicon Ali Abbas
Media coordinator Template:Flagicon Salam Al-Manaseer
Security coordinator Vacant
Kitman Vacant

PlayersEdit

Template:For

Current squadEdit

The following 30 players were called up for the preliminary list of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification from 5 to 10 June 2025.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Caps and goals correct as of 25 March 2025, after the game against Template:Fb.

Template:Nat fs g start Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs g player Template:Nat fs end

Recent call-upsEdit

The following players have been called up within the last 12 months and remain eligible for selection. Template:Nat fs r start Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs break Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs r player Template:Nat fs break SUS Player suspended
INJ Player injured
PRE Player was named in preliminary squad
CLB Player refused by club or unable to attend due to club commitments
RET Player retired from the national team
WD Player withdrew for non-injury related reasons
Template:Nat fs end

RecordsEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} Template:See also Template:Updated.<ref>Template:Cite book</ref>

Players in bold are still active with Iraq.

Most appearancesEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

File:Younis Mahmoud 2011.jpg
Younis Mahmoud is Iraq's all-time most capped player, having played in 148 official matches.
Rank Player Caps Goals Career
1 Younis Mahmoud 148 57 2002–2016
2 Hussein Saeed 137 78 1976–1990
3 Alaa Abdul-Zahra 126 17 2007–2021
4 Adnan Dirjal 121 8 1978–1990
Ahmed Radhi 121 62 1982–1997
6 Ahmed Ibrahim 118 5 2010–2022
7 Hawar Mulla Mohammed 113 20 2001–2012
Nashat Akram 113 17 2001–2013
Ali Rehema 113 2 2005–2016
10 Mahdi Karim 110 11 2001–2018

Top goalscorersEdit

Template:See also

File:Hussein Saeed.jpg
Hussein Saeed is Iraq's all-time leading goalscorer, having scored 78 goals in 137 official matches.
Rank Player Goals Caps Ratio Career
1 Hussein Saeed (list) 78 137 {{#expr:78/137 round 2}} 1976–1990
2 Ahmed Radhi 62 121 {{#expr:62/121 round 2}} 1982–1997
3 Younis Mahmoud 57 148 {{#expr:57/148 round 2}} 2002–2016
4 Ali Kadhim 35 82 {{#expr:35/82 round 2}} 1970–1980
5 Aymen Hussein 32 86 {{#expr:32/86 round 2}} 2015–present
6 Falah Hassan 29 103 {{#expr:29/103 round 2}} 1970–1986
7 Emad Mohammed 27 103 {{#expr:27/103 round 2}} 2001–2012
8 Razzaq Farhan 25 62 {{#expr:25/62 round 2}} 1998–2007
9 Mohanad Ali 21 57 {{#expr:21/57 round 2}} 2017–present
Laith Hussein 21 80 {{#expr:21/80 round 2}} 1986–2002

Competitive recordEdit

Template:For


FIFA World CupEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

FIFA World Cup history
Year Round Score Result
1986 Group stage
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 1–2 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss

AFC Asian CupEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

AFC Asian Cup history
Year Round Score Result
1972 Group allocation matches
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Aet Template:Pso Template:Fb Draw
Group stage
Template:Fb 0–3 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
1976 Group stage
Template:Fb 0–2 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Semi-finals
Template:Fb 2–3 Template:Aet Template:Fb Loss
Third place
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
1996 Group stage
Template:Fb 2–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 4–1 Template:Fb Win
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Aet Template:Fb Loss
2000 Group stage
Template:Fb 2–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 2–2 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 1–4 Template:Fb Loss
2004 Group stage
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 3–2 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 2–1 Template:Fb Win
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 0–3 Template:Fb Loss
2007 Group stage
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 3–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 2–0 Template:Fb Win
Semi-finals
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Aet Template:Pso Template:Fb Draw
Final
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
2011 Group stage
Template:Fb 1–2 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Aet Template:Fb Loss
2015 Group stage
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 2–0 Template:Fb Win
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 3–3 Template:Aet Template:Pso Template:Fb Draw
Semi-finals
Template:Fb 0–2 Template:Fb Loss
Third place
Template:Fb 2–3 Template:Fb Loss
2019 Group stage
Template:Fb 3–2 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw
Round of 16
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
2023 Group stage
Template:Fb 3–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 2–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 3–2 Template:Fb Win
Round of 16
Template:Fb 2–3 Template:Fb Loss

FIFA Confederations CupEdit

FIFA Confederations Cup history
Year Round Score Result
2009 Group stage
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw

Summer OlympicsEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

Summer Olympics history
Year Round Score Result
1980 Group stage
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
Quarterfinals
Template:Fb 0–4 Template:Fb Loss
1984 Group stage
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 2–4 Template:Fb Loss
1988 Group stage
Template:Fb 2–2 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 0–2 Template:Fb Loss
1992–present
See Iraq national under-23 football team

Asian GamesEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

Asian Games history
Year Round Score Result
1974 First round
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Second round
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 0–0 Template:Fb Draw
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
1978 First round
Template:Fb 2–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 2–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Fb Draw
Second round
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Bronze play-off
Template:Fb 0–1 Template:Fb Loss
1982 First round
Template:Fb 4–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 3–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–2 Template:Fb Loss
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Aet Template:Fb Win
Semi-finals
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
Final
Template:Fb 1–0 Template:Fb Win
1986 First round
Template:Fb 4–0 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 5–1 Template:Fb Win
Template:Fb 1–2 Template:Fb Loss
Template:Fb 2–1 Template:Fb Win
Quarter-finals
Template:Fb 1–1 Template:Aet Template:Pso Template:Fb Draw
2002–present
See Iraq national under-23 football team

Regional competitionsEdit

WAFF ChampionshipEdit

FIFA Arab CupEdit

Arabian Gulf CupEdit

West Asian GamesEdit

Arab GamesEdit

Minor tournamentsEdit


Head-to-head recordEdit

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

The list shown below shows the Iraq national football team all−time international record against opposing nations.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Template:Legend2 Template:Legend2 Template:Legend2

Template:Updated after match against Template:Fb

All friendly and international matches have been approved, except for Olympic matches. A-level matches

Iraq national football team head-to-head records
Team Confederation First Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip Template:Tooltip
Template:Fb AFC 1975 2 2 0 0 7 1 +6
Template:Fb CAF 1973 7 3 2 1 9 3 +6
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2018 1 0 0 1 0 4 −4
Template:Fb AFC 1973 11 2 2 7 8 14 −6
Template:Fb UEFA 2009 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1
Template:Fb AFC 1966 33 13 14 6 46 28 +18
Template:Fb UEFA 1986 1 0 0 1 1 2 −1
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2018 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Template:Fb CAF 2012 1 0 1 0 1 1 0
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2012 1 0 0 1 0 6 −6
Template:Fb AFC 2019 2 2 0 0 8 1 +7
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2013 1 0 0 1 0 6 −6
Template:Fb AFC 1974 17 9 2 6 20 18 +2
Template:Fb AFC 1974 5 5 0 0 18 3 +15
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2023 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1
Template:Fb UEFA 2005 1 0 0 1 1 2 −1
Template:Fb CAF 2015 2 2 0 0 3 1 +2
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2022 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Template:Fb CAF 1972 7 0 3 4 1 7 −6
Template:Fb UEFA 1999 1 0 1 0 1 1 0
Template:Fb CAF 1992 1 1 0 0 13 0 +13
Template:Fb UEFA 1979 2 2 0 0 3 0 +3
Template:Fb CAF 1989 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1
Template:Fb AFC 2019 2 2 0 0 3 0 +3
Template:Fb AFC 1974 7 4 3 0 13 4 +9
Template:Fb AFC 1973 10 9 1 0 27 5 +22
Template:Fb AFC 1962 28 6 6 16 21 37 −16
Template:Fb AFC 1978 14 4 3 7 12 20 −8
Template:Fb AFC 1964 53 27 15 11 75 52 +23
Template:Fb UEFA 1997 4 0 2 2 4 7 −3
Template:Fb CAF 2003 2 2 0 0 4 1 +2
Template:Fb AFC 1999 2 2 0 0 9 1 +8
Template:Fb AFC 1964 38 16 12 10 50 40 +10
Template:Fb CAF 2013 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1
Template:Fb AFC 1959 18 9 8 1 24 9 +15
Template:Fb CAF 1964 11 7 3 1 17 6 +11
Template:Fb AFC 2001 2 2 0 0 13 0 +13
Template:Fb AFC 1974 7 4 3 0 12 3 +9
Template:Fb CAF 1985 1 1 0 0 2 0 +2
Template:Fb CONCACAF 1986 2 0 0 2 0 5 −5
Template:Fb UEFA 1992 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1
Template:Fb CAF 1966 7 2 4 1 6 3 +3
Template:Fb AFC 2003 4 4 0 0 13 0 +7
Template:Fb AFC 1974 9 6 1 2 11 5 +6
Template:Fb AFC 1982 4 4 0 0 22 5 +17
Template:Fb OFC 1973 3 2 1 0 6 0 +6
Template:Fb AFC 1976 30 15 9 6 51 25 +26
Template:Fb AFC 1969 9 7 1 1 40 6 +34
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 1986 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1
Template:Fb AFC 2002 18 14 3 1 39 8 +31
Template:Fb CONMEBOL 2014 1 0 0 1 0 2 −2
Template:Fb AFC 2024 2 2 0 0 6 0 +6
Template:Fb UEFA 1970 5 1 2 2 3 7 −4
Template:Fb AFC 1976 33 15 10 8 41 31 +10
Template:Fb UEFA 1970 2 0 2 0 1 1 0
Template:Fb UEFA 2023 1 0 0 1 0 2 –2
Template:Fb AFC 1976 37 17 9 11 56 34 +22
Template:Fb CAF 2012 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1
Template:Fb AFC 1978 6 5 0 1 20 5 +15
Template:Fb CAF 2009 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Template:Fb AFC 1972 21 1 12 8 15 27 −12
Template:Fb UEFA 2009 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1
Template:Fb CAF 2012 2 0 2 0 3 3 0
Template:Fb AFC 1966 33 17 11 5 46 25 +20
Template:Fb AFC 1999 2 1 1 0 2 1 +1
Template:Fb AFC 1972 18 10 6 2 47 20 +27
Template:Fb CONCACAF 1972 1 0 0 1 0 2 −2
Template:Fb CAF 1957 7 0 3 4 4 10 −6
Template:Fb UEFA 1969 3 0 1 2 1 8 –7
Template:Fb AFC 1999 2 2 0 0 6 2 +4
Template:Fb CAF 1977 3 1 2 0 3 2 +1
Template:Fb AFC 1973 30 11 12 7 43 29 +14
Template:Fb AFC 1997 11 3 3 5 8 10 -2
Template:Fb AFC 2007 7 6 1 0 14 6 +8
Template:Fb AFC 1993 15 12 3 0 36 7 +29
Template:Fb CAF 2022 1 1 0 0 3 1 +2
Total 734 348 206 180 1178 680 +498
Last match updated was against  Template:Flagicon [[Saudi national football team|Template:Ifsubst style="color:#FFFFFF">Saudi Arabia]] on 22 December 2024.


FIFA RankingsEdit

Last update was on 26 November 2023.
Source:<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Template:Color box Best Ranking  Template:Color box Worst Ranking  Template:Color box Best Mover  Template:Color box Worst Mover  

[[FIFA World Rankings|Template:Ifsubst style="color:#FFFFFF">Iraq's FIFA World Ranking]]
Rank Year Games
Played 		Best Worst
Rank Move Rank Move
63 2023 14 63 Template:Increase 5 70 Template:Decrease 2
68 2022 11 68 Template:Increase 2 74 Template:Decrease 0
75 2021 17 68 Template:Increase 1 75 Template:Decrease 3
69 2020 2 69 Template:Increase 1 70 Template:Decrease 0
70 2019 22 70 Template:Increase 8 80 Template:Decrease 2
88 2018 12 82 Template:Increase 2 91 Template:Decrease 5
79 2017 14 79 Template:Increase 17 122 Template:Decrease 3
119 2016 12 87 Template:Increase 15 128 Template:Decrease 15
89 2015 16 82 Template:Increase 20 114 Template:Decrease 11
103 2014 11 81 Template:Increase 15 115 Template:Decrease 23
110 2013 19 89 Template:Increase 3 110 Template:Decrease 6
92 2012 20 70 Template:Increase 6 97 Template:Decrease 17
78 2011 20 78 Template:Increase 16 109 Template:Decrease 13
100 2010 15 80 Template:Increase 13 107 Template:Decrease 24
88 2009 13 77 Template:Increase 9 100 Template:Decrease 17
72 2008 12 58 Template:Increase 15 77 Template:Decrease 18
68 2007 20 64 Template:Increase 16 84 Template:Decrease 5
83 2006 14 52 Template:Increase 5 92 Template:Decrease 36
54 2005 10 44 Template:Increase 20 74 Template:Decrease 11
44 2004 21 39 Template:Increase 3 45 Template:Decrease 6
43 2003 12 43 Template:Increase 23 75 Template:Decrease 13
53 2002 10 50 Template:Increase 9 72 Template:Decrease 3
72 2001 18 69 Template:Increase 16 85 Template:Decrease 4
79 2000 11 78 Template:Increase 9 89 Template:Decrease 8
78 1999 13 78 Template:Increase 16 108 Template:Decrease 5
94 1998 1 70 Template:Increase 7 101 Template:Decrease 13
68 1997 9 68 Template:Increase 13 98 Template:Decrease 2
98 1996 7 98 Template:Increase 31 139 Template:Decrease 15
110 1995 3 76 Template:Increase 26 110 Template:Decrease 28
88 1994 0 61 Template:Increase 4 88 Template:Decrease 8
65 1993 15 57 Template:Increase 25 66 Template:Decrease 5

HonoursEdit

This is a list of honours for the senior Iraq national team

Template:Football squad on pitch

ContinentalEdit

RegionalEdit

FriendlyEdit

AwardsEdit

See alsoEdit

Template:Portal

ReferencesEdit

Template:Reflist

External linksEdit

Template:Sister project

Template:Iraq national football team Template:Navboxes Template:Portal bar

Retrieved from "https://zalansite.site/mediawiki/index.php?title=Iraq_national_football_team&oldid=611022"