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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: Transactions

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 aims for Iraq World Cup debut against Norway
Summary

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.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Key Details
  • •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.
Latest Updates
  • 10:41 AMYahoo Sports — Liverpool refugee hoping for Iraq World Cup debut
What they're saying
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Ali Al-Hamadi was a baby when his mother and father fled the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003.

Related Teams & Leagues
LiverpoolEPLSoccer

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