Highlights from Graham Arnold's Talk Before Facing Norway
Graham Arnold, the coach of the Lions of Mesopotamia, approaches the Norway match with a warrior's mentality. Iraq begins its journey in the 2026 World Cup early Wednesday at 1 AM Baghdad and Mecca time at Gillette Stadium in Boston, marking its second global appearance after a 40-year absence since the 1986 Mexico World Cup and Ahmed Radhi's historic goal.
In the press conference, the Australian coach spoke confidently: 'I have a wealth of experience and knowledge gained throughout my career, and I will employ it in tomorrow's match against Norway.' He added that the playoff journey taught the team how to press the opponent and leverage their strength: 'My goal since coming to Iraq is for the players to show their best performances. If we do that, we will be able to return with a positive result.'
Arnold's most notable statements were about Erling Haaland. He stated decisively: 'We are not facing Haaland alone; the match is 11 against 11.' With his past as a striker, he knows well the requirements of the position. He described Haaland as a 'super striker,' but emphasized the plan: 'We must be organized and win the aerial and ground battles. If we succeed in this area, we will have a real chance to win. We believe in our chances, and everyone here is to raise the heads of the Iraqi fans.'
Arnold praised the significant leap in Asian football, especially in the Gulf and the Middle East. He compared the current situation to 2006 when Australia joined the continent: 'Asian teams have invested huge amounts to develop themselves. They have set plans for age groups, held dedicated tournaments, and benefited from the schools of Portugal, Spain, France, and Brazil. The difference is clear today.'
Regarding the delegation's delayed arrival and the 8-hour detention of striker Ayman Hussein in Chicago, Arnold responded briefly: 'We only look at the positive side. We have arrived, we have an excellent hotel and top-level training facilities, and the players are comfortable. The atmosphere is set for a fantastic World Cup, and the Iraqi players are very proud to be here. This tournament means a lot to them.'
In the press conference, the Australian coach spoke confidently: 'I have a wealth of experience and knowledge gained throughout my career, and I will employ it in tomorrow's match against Norway.' He added that the playoff journey taught the team how to press the opponent and leverage their strength: 'My goal since coming to Iraq is for the players to show their best performances. If we do that, we will be able to return with a positive result.'
Arnold's most notable statements were about Erling Haaland. He stated decisively: 'We are not facing Haaland alone; the match is 11 against 11.' With his past as a striker, he knows well the requirements of the position. He described Haaland as a 'super striker,' but emphasized the plan: 'We must be organized and win the aerial and ground battles. If we succeed in this area, we will have a real chance to win. We believe in our chances, and everyone here is to raise the heads of the Iraqi fans.'
Arnold praised the significant leap in Asian football, especially in the Gulf and the Middle East. He compared the current situation to 2006 when Australia joined the continent: 'Asian teams have invested huge amounts to develop themselves. They have set plans for age groups, held dedicated tournaments, and benefited from the schools of Portugal, Spain, France, and Brazil. The difference is clear today.'
Regarding the delegation's delayed arrival and the 8-hour detention of striker Ayman Hussein in Chicago, Arnold responded briefly: 'We only look at the positive side. We have arrived, we have an excellent hotel and top-level training facilities, and the players are comfortable. The atmosphere is set for a fantastic World Cup, and the Iraqi players are very proud to be here. This tournament means a lot to them.'
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