Former Iraqi national team star Nashat Akram relies on 'struggle' as a motivating factor that can lead the players of the Black Lions of Mesopotamia to snatch a ticket to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The Iraqi national team will play its matches in Group B of the Asian playoffs alongside Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, with the matches taking place in Jeddah next October.

Nashat Akram said in statements via Iraqi Football Association platforms: 'The players of the Iraqi national team alone bear the responsibility during this period; the ball is in their court today, and they are the only ones capable of achieving the dream of the fans after a 40-year absence from the World Cup.'

He added: 'Coach Graham Arnold outlines the broad lines, but good results are linked to the players' commitment and love for their country. They must overcome any negative matters and focus on victory because the task is not impossible, and the team possesses all the elements to cross the playoffs.'

Akram noted: 'The atmosphere is not rosy at all, and I am not in favor of creating overly comfortable conditions for the players. All achievements of Iraqi football came from the womb of struggle. Our generation finished fourth in the Athens 2004 Olympics, and we won the Asian Cup in 2007 amidst difficult circumstances, so I trust that struggle will reveal the true metal of the Iraqi player.'

He continued: 'Players must invest in the love of the fans for them and the unlimited support from everyone. Today, they are just two matches away from the World Cup, and I hope they continue to present consistent performances away from external influences, and most importantly, to be fully prepared for the big event.'

Additionally, the Asian Football Confederation has officially launched tickets for the Iraq vs. Indonesia match, while the Iraqi national team will begin its training camp after the fourth round of the Iraqi Stars League, with the final list for the playoffs to be announced at the end of this month.