Aymen Hussein: We want the fifth title and our fans deserve joy

Iraq's striker Aymen Hussein has confirmed that the Lions of Mesopotamia are entering the Gulf Cup "Gulf 27" with great and high ambitions, emphasizing that all players are in excellent readiness and are looking forward to competing for the title and bringing joy to the Iraqi fans.

Aymen Hussein, aged 30, recently participated in the FIFA World Cup 2026, but left the tournament due to injury after playing two matches against Norway and France, scoring Iraq's only goal in the World Cup with a stunning header against the Norwegian national team. This achievement mirrors that of the late Iraqi football legend Ahmed Radhi, who scored Iraq's only goal in the 1986 World Cup.

Aymen Hussein stated during the press conference for the match against Oman: "The players have changed a lot, and about 50% of the current squad are young players with multiple and great talents, and everyone is ready to compete in the tournament. We must make the Iraqi fans happy by winning the Gulf Cup for the fifth time in our history."

The top scorer of the Black Falcons added: "The team has changed significantly in terms of names, and we have new, important, and distinctive names. As one family within the team, we work to support the new and young players, and this is what coach Graham Arnold has directed us to do, as he always strives to motivate us and show our best on the pitch."

Regarding the chances of the Lions of Mesopotamia in competing for the title, Aymen Hussein confidently stated: "The team that is physically and mentally prepared will ultimately win the title, and we are in great readiness with the support of the media and the fans. We look forward to giving our best in the tournament; the current team is special and possesses all the qualifications for success."

Pakhtakor's striker emphasized the importance of fan support for the national team, stating: "Our fans are our primary and biggest supporters, and we always rely on them in major tournaments. They expect more from us and for us to achieve titles, and God willing, that will happen with their support and encouragement throughout the minutes of the match."

Aymen Hussein thanked Saudi Arabia for hosting the tournament and the excellent organization, saying: "We thank Saudi Arabia for the wonderful hosting, and we congratulate them on their National Day. Saudi Arabia is our second home. We feel very comfortable here in Jeddah and hope to deliver our best performances in the competition and meet the expectations of our fans."

Aymen Hussein is nearing the 100-cap milestone with the Iraq national team, having played 93 matches for the Lions of Mesopotamia so far, scoring 33 goals. He has also participated in 17 matches with the Olympic team, netting 3 goals, and previously played with the youth team. He is considered one of the key attacking pillars that Arnold relies on in the FIFA World Cup 27.