Iraq’s dream of reaching the World Cup is alive—but it’s an uphill climb for the Lions of Mesopotamia. This is a team built on resilience and adaptability, capable of shifting tactics to match any opponent. They thrive on quick transitions, understanding that defensive discipline is the launchpad for their creative attackers to strike fast and hard in the final third. Historically, Iraq has been one of the most decorated teams in its region: a World Cup appearance in 1986, four Arab Cup and Arabian Gulf Cup titles, and the unforgettable 2007 AFC Asian Cup victory that united a nation.

Iraq vs. UAE: A crucial AFC Playoff battle

This Thursday, the Lions face the United Arab Emirates in the first leg of the AFC playoff. The clash in Abu Dhabi pits Iraq’s Europe-seasoned roster—about half the squad plays abroad—against a UAE side largely drawn from the domestic Pro League, with only two players plying their trade in Europe (one in Poland and another in France’s Ligue 2 with Montpellier).

On paper, Iraq holds the edge, ranked 57th in the world—just above Saudi Arabia and a single point behind Chile—while the UAE sits at 67. But as every football fan knows, rankings don’t score goals, and the “Sons of Zayed” won’t go down without a fight.

Should Iraq advance from these two legs (November 13 and 18, both at 11 AM ET / 8 AM PT, beIN Sports Connect PPV in Arabic), an even greater test awaits: the Intercontinental Playoff Tournament. There, they could face opponents ranging from New Caledonia (150) to Bolivia (76), or the playoff winner of CAF (Gabon 77, Cameroon 54, Nigeria 41, or DR Congo 60) or any of the top winners of CONCACAF (which includes, among others, Panama 31, Suriname 126, Honduras 64, Guatemala 95, Curaçao 82, Costa Rica 45). It’s a daunting gauntlet—an odyssey of travel, talent, and tenacity.

The pride and power of the Lions

Yet Iraq has its own arsenal. Up front, the dynamic trio of Abu Tubar, “Mimi”, and Ali Al-Hamadi—the first Iraqi ever to play in the Premier League—bring speed and flair. At the back, goalkeeper Jalal Hassan anchors a maturing defense, orchestrating every movement with authority.

But beyond tactics and talent, this team carries something more powerful: symbolism. For 90 minutes, when the Lions of Mesopotamia take the pitch, sectarian and political divides fade away. They represent unity, pride, and the unbreakable spirit of a football-loving nation that dares to dream.

For Iraq, qualifying for the 2026 World Cup isn’t just a sporting goal—it’s a statement. And if passion counts for anything, the roar of the Lions might just echo all the way to North America.

📺 Follow the link below to watch it on beIN Sports Connect in Arabic:
PAY-PER-VIEW - ASIAN WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS IN ARABIC - beIN SPORTS CONNECT