Iraq begins training in Monterrey ahead of World Cup playoff

Iraqi players begin first training in Monterrey.

MONTERREY, Mexico, March 23: The Iraqi national football team has started preparations in Monterrey, Mexico, ahead of its 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff match against the winner of Bolivia vs. Suriname, according to the Iraqi Football Association.

Australian coach Graham Arnold has gradually assembled the squad, with three Europe-based players — Amir Al-Omari, Mirhas Doski, and Hussein Ali — joining after completing their club commitments. A total of 15 overseas professionals are part of the squad, including Zaid Tahseen, Rabeen Sulaqa, Ibrahim Baish, Ali Al-Hamadi, Marko Faraj, Zidan Iqbal, Imaar Shir, Muhannad Ali, Youssef Al-Amin, Ali Jassim, Kevin Yaqoub, and Frans Batros.

Arnold has called up 28 players in total as Iraq prepares for the decisive playoff on March 31. Victory would secure Iraq’s second-ever World Cup appearance, their first since the 1986 Mexico tournament.