Iraq

Iraq shocked the world in 2007 by winning the Asian Cup and ever since the Lions of Mesopotamia have reached the knockout stages of the tournament, including a run to the semi-finals.

What to expect

Playing possession-based football under Spanish coach Jesus Casas and with more than half of the squad based in Europe, the Iraqis could go far again and become the tournament’s dark horses.

In Group D, Indonesia and Vietnam will be familiar opponents as Iraq defeated both teams in World Cup qualifying in November.

Japan will be difficult to beat, but Casas’s team should find safe passage to the round of sixteen and from there, anything will be possible.

Iraq have recent trophy winning form, winning the Gulf Cup, which they hosted, last January.

Star player

Aged 21, Wimbledon’s Ali Al Hamadi (below) is a striker with a keen eye for goal. He never played football in Iraq, but instead came through the ranks at Tranmere Rovers and Swansea City. He enjoys huge popularity among Iraqi fans and even gets stopped on the streets of London.

Ali Jasim (below), who plies his trade for local club Al-Quwa Al-Jawi, could be a breakout star. The 19-year-old has all the hallmarks of a great playmaker.

Manager 

Jesus Casas had a modest career as a player before embarking on a managerial career that has mostly seen him operate in the shadows, either at youth level or as an assistant coach.

In 2022, however, he took over Iraq on a four-year deal and he seems to be flourishing in his new role, bringing the Spanish school of football to Baghdad and landing victory in the Gulf Cup last year. It was the first time since 1988 that the Iraqis won the competition. The Asian Cup will be a step up, but his team have the talent and mettle to impress.

Schedule 

Monday, January 15, 2024, 5:30 pm: Indonesia – Iraq – Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Doha

Friday, January 19, 2024, 2:30 pm: Iraq – Japan – Education City Stadium, Doha

Wednesday, January 24, 2024, 6:00 pm: Iraq – Vietnam – Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, Doha

Squad