Is Graham Arnold Backing Iraq’s 2026 Dream?

As Iraq prepares for the 2026 Asian qualifications, new head coach Graham Arnold is confident in taking the country to its first FIFA World Cup in 40 years.

After replacing Jesus Casas in May, the Australian coach hopes to lead Iraq to their second World Cup appearance, their first since 1986. In October, Jeddah will host all qualification matches between Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.

The group winner will qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. I have worked against the Saudi and Indonesian national teams extensively. “I know their strengths and weaknesses,” Arnold remarked.

“But we are Iraq, an extremely proud nation with a higher FIFA ranking than both Saudi and Indonesia and we need to prove that.”

Arnold hopes his coaching experience, especially with Australia, would motivate Iraq’s effort.

His greatest achievement was leading the Socceroos to the 2022 World Cup Round of 16 before losing to eventual champions Argentina. Last September, after a goalless draw against Indonesia in Jakarta, the 61-year-old resigned as Australia’s coach.

Arnold’s Iraq will play Saudi Arabia on October 14th at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where his Australia lost 1-0 in a March 2022 World Cup qualifier.