World Cup: Iraq launch probe, plan overhaul after winless return

n n

By Adegboyega Adeleye

n

Iraq have begun a review of their disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after crashing out of the tournament without a point, with the country’s Olympic Committee promising a major overhaul of the national team and domestic football structure.

n

The Lions of Mesopotamia returned to the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years but endured a difficult campaign, losing all three Group I matches against former champions France, Norway and Senegal, while conceding 12 goals.

n

According to Reuters, the poor showing has prompted the Iraqi Olympic Committee to announce an investigation into the causes of the team’s failure, alongside plans to develop a long-term strategy aimed at preventing a repeat in future tournaments.

n

Committee president Aqeel Muftin said officials would meet with the Iraqi Football Association after the team’s return to examine what went wrong.

n

“We will hold a meeting with Football Association officials to examine the reasons behind the team’s decline in results at the World Cup and to develop a strategy for its improvement,” Muftin told the Iraqi News Agency, as quoted by Reuters.

n

He admitted the disappointing campaign had left the nation frustrated.

n

“Everyone is saddened” by the outcome, he said.

n

Muftin explained that discussions would focus on producing a comprehensive roadmap covering the short, medium and long term, with specialised committees expected to identify weaknesses in the domestic league and national teams before recommending solutions.

n

“This requires the combined efforts of everyone,” he added.

n

He stressed that rebuilding Iraqi football was a collective responsibility rather than the task of one institution alone.

n

“The national team does not belong to the Olympic Committee, the federation or the government — it belongs to the nation, and everyone is responsible for supporting it and ensuring its success,” Muftin said.

n n