Iraq

Iraq, the Lions of Mesopotamia, are one of Asian football's most emotional and inspirational stories, their on-pitch achievements often bringing unity and joy to a nation enduring great hardship. Backed by passionate support, the Iraqis are a proud and resilient footballing power.

Iraq's only previous World Cup appearance came in 1986 in Mexico, where they exited in the group stage. Their crowning moment as a footballing nation came in 2007, when an against-all-odds triumph at the Asian Cup united the country in celebration. After a long wait, the Lions of Mesopotamia booked a return to the World Cup for 2026 via the intercontinental playoffs, ending a 40-year absence from the global stage.