Iraqi Players: We Seek Victory and Do Not Think of Any Pressure

The Lions of Mesopotamia stand on the brink of a historic moment. The Iraqi national team is preparing for its first appearance in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as they face Norway at dawn on Wednesday at 1 AM Baghdad and Mecca time at the "Gillette" Stadium in Boston.

Preparations have reached their peak. Graham Arnold has put the final touches on his plan, with his eye on a positive result and perhaps a surprise that opens Iraq's path in the "Group of Death" ninth, which also includes France and Senegal. The kickoff whistle will blow on Tuesday evening American time.

Midfielder Amir Al-Amari revealed the camp's atmosphere away from tension. He jokingly said: "If we keep thinking about the match every day for two weeks, we will go crazy." He explained that the team lives like one family: "We laugh, spend time together, enjoy beautiful moments away from talking about the strength of the opponent and its stars."

His focus is now on performance: "We want to give our best and take the three points. The reason for our smile and confidence is that we are brothers on and off the field. We await our fans in the stands to gift them a joy worthy of their great support."

Striker Ali Al-Hamadi thanked the Iraqi fans for their constant support. He confirmed the team's readiness: "We have reached the highest levels of preparation for this moment that Iraqis have awaited for 40 years. Our people love football, and giving them a moment of joy and victory in the World Cup is something exceptional for us."

Despite his respect for the Norwegian stars playing in the biggest clubs, Al-Hamadi emphasized: "We will give our best and show the strongest image of the Iraqi national team. This is football, and anything is possible. The important thing is to think about ourselves more than the opponent and prepare in the best way to deliver a great match."

Ali Youssef spoke about the meaning of qualification: "The dream is not over. Reaching the World Cup was a big goal achieved thanks to God, then the efforts of the federation, the technical staff, and the players. Now we have to show the face that befits the name of Iraq and its history, and we wish success in the future."

Regarding the pressures, he said: "The World Cup means pressure from all sides, but the coach succeeded in instilling spirit and confidence in us. That's why you always see a smile on our faces. We know the importance of the meeting and are facing one of Europe's strongest teams, a team that eliminated Italy in the Euro playoffs. We will exert all our efforts to be up to the responsibility."

The message is one from all players: confidence, family spirit, and ambition to win. Iraq enters with the heart of brothers and a mentality that does not fear the opponent. If they succeed in translating these spirits inside Gillette Stadium, Iraq's first three points in the World Cup after a 40-year absence might become a reality at dawn on Wednesday.