Ali Al-Hamadi aims for Iraq World Cup debut against Norway
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 10:41 AM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
Ali Al-Hamadi is set to represent Iraq in their opening Group I World Cup match against Norway, taking place at 23:00 BST in Boston. The 24-year-old striker, whose family fled Iraq in 2003, described the opportunity as a significant moment for his parents and reflected on their journey. Al-Hamadi, who grew up in Liverpool, has played for various clubs including Ipswich Town and Luton Town. This match marks a poignant return to his roots as he aims to honor his family's legacy by wearing the Iraqi national jersey.
- •Ali Al-Hamadi was born in Iraq but moved to the UK as a baby.
- •He has played for Ipswich Town, with a prior loan at Luton Town.
- •Iraq’s World Cup match against Norway starts at 23:00 BST.
- •This marks a significant moment for Al-Hamadi's family.
- •Another Liverpool-raised player may compete against him in the match.
- 10:41 AMYahoo Sports — Liverpool refugee hoping for Iraq World Cup debut
"Ali Al-Hamadi was a baby when his mother and father fled the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003.
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