Former Iraqi national team goalkeeper Noor Sabri identified a hidden advantage in the Australian coach of the Iraqi Lions, Graham Arnold, which he considers an important reason for the improvement in the level of Iraqi national team players.

Noor Sabri said: "The Iraqi national team is delivering great and remarkable performances in the Arab Cup, and I believe the players have succeeded in regaining their confidence again after the pressure of the qualification and Asian playoff matches. Today, Iraqi fans are extremely happy with the impressive performances they see on the field, which culminated in victories in two matches."

He added: "Coach Graham Arnold's touch is clear with the Iraqi Lions. There are artistic touches and tactical plans that most observers overlook. All this happens because they play comfortably and focus only on playing without any external influences or statements, as the team has reached a stage of football maturity."

He explained, saying: "There is a hidden advantage in the coach that no one focuses on, which is his closeness to the players. Honestly, I always focus on the sidelines during the match and how the coach deals with humility and a beautiful fatherly spirit with everyone. This is the secret of the Iraqi national team because the Iraqi player looks for someone who trusts him and gives him the motivation to perform his best, and this is a trait Arnold possesses."

Sabri continued: "Since the match against the UAE in Abu Dhabi during the Asian qualification playoff, the Iraqi national team has been performing well and delivering great levels, and I hope they continue this in the coming days. The team must have strategic plans and not be content with working separately."

He added: "The gains from the tournament were many, the most prominent being player Zaid Ismail, who is the discovery of the tournament with outstanding and clear performances in the midfield. Also, we must not forget player Karrar Nabil, who is delivering one of his best performances, in addition to the brilliance of Ahmed Mkenzi, Muhannad Ali, and Ali Jassim. I hope Ayman Hussein regains his fitness because Iraq is in urgent need of him."