The star of the Iraqi national team, Zidan Iqbal, has become one of the most prominent players relied upon by coach Graham Arnold in the match against the Saudi national team, part of the final round of the Asian playoff matches for qualification to the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah at 9:45 PM.

This significant reliance on Iqbal comes after the outstanding performances he delivered in Iraq's match against Indonesia, which Iraq won with a single goal scored by Iqbal in the 76th minute, giving the Black Lions a valuable victory at the start of their journey in the Asian playoff.

Iraqi coach Hamza Dawood stated in remarks to winwin: "Zidan Iqbal's performance against Indonesia was decisive, as he succeeded in completely changing the team's style of play and increased the offensive effectiveness, especially after the first half which saw difficulties in penetrating the opponent's defenses. Tomorrow against Saudi Arabia, the reliance on him will be greater, as he is capable of energizing his teammates and moving the team's lines, which is what Iraq needs to achieve victory."

Dawood added: "Iqbal is not just an offensive player; he has the ability to organize play in the midfield and impact the performance of both teams, thus he will be a key element in Tuesday's match, especially since the game will determine Iraq's fate in direct qualification for the World Cup."

Dawood confirmed: "Coach Arnold will fully utilize Iqbal's abilities, who has proven he can face strong opponents and provide the necessary difference, whether through decisive passes, off-the-ball movement, or even pressing the opposing team's players, which will make him the cornerstone in the formation of the Black Lions."

It is noteworthy that Iqbal has represented Iraq in 19 official matches and scored two goals, and he has previously represented the Olympic team in two matches. He is considered one of the most prominent young talents capable of making a difference in crucial matches, and the coaching staff hopes he will shine again against the Saudi Green to secure Iraq's direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.