Arnold: Iraq Arrived in Jeddah Focused and Determined to Compete for the Title

Iraq national team head coach Graham Arnold said the Lions of Mesopotamia arrived in Jeddah with a high level of focus and a clear ambition to compete for the tournament title, highlighting the team’s combination of experience and promising young talent.

Speaking at the press conference ahead of Iraq’s match against Oman, Arnold noted that a large number of his players have World Cup experience, which has helped them develop greater international experience. He also pointed to the young players in the squad, describing them as highly talented and possessing significant potential for the future.

Arnold added that Iraq have the technical qualities and capabilities required to challenge for the title, stressing that the team’s ambitions go beyond simply winning individual matches.

He also confirmed that Ali Al-Hamadi will miss the match due to injury, while the rest of the squad is fully ready both technically and physically.

Regarding Oman, Arnold described them as a strong side with considerable experience in major tournaments. He said studying opponents is a natural part of preparation, but stressed that his primary focus remains on preparing the Iraqi national team.