Iraq and Al-Zawraa goalkeeper, Jalal Hassan, looks forward to playing one of the most important matches of his career with the Iraqi national team in the world playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, despite recently suffering an injury that may affect his preparations.

Hassan, 34, is considered a key pillar in Al-Zawraa and the captain of the Iraqi national team, having played 14 matches this season in the Iraqi Stars League, managing to keep a clean sheet in 8 encounters, reflecting his high technical level and consistent performance.

Informed sources told winwin that the goalkeeper suffered a bruise during his team's match against Mosul in the Iraqi Stars League, and the medical staff of Al-Zawraa recommended temporarily keeping him away from group training to avoid aggravating the injury.

The source confirmed that the bruise is moderate and requires about an additional week for full recovery, with the goalkeeper gradually returning to training according to his designated treatment and rehabilitation program, noting Hassan's full commitment to the instructions of both the medical and technical staff.

Despite the injury, Jalal Hassan expressed a strong desire to participate in the world playoff match, informing Australian coach Graham Arnold of his intention to join the Iraqi delegation in Mexico among the first departing players, asserting that his injury will not affect his technical and physical readiness for the match.

The source indicated that the goalkeeper will be medically ready to participate in the national team's camp and play the match scheduled for the first of April, while the coach continues to monitor the levels of Ahmed Basil as a backup option to ensure the presence of a goalkeeper in the highest degrees of technical and physical readiness.

Jalal Hassan has played 100 matches throughout his career with the Iraqi national team since joining in July 2011, maintaining consistent levels and proving his worth to all the coaches who have overseen the Lions of Mesopotamia, the latest being Australian coach Graham Arnold, who appreciates his experience and abilities.