Iraq coach prepares for World Cup match against Norway in Boston
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 1:53 AM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
Iraq coach Graham Arnold prepares his team for their first World Cup match in 40 years against Norway in Boston. Despite their underdog status, Arnold emphasizes the need for his players to embrace the moment and aim to perform at their best. Iraq's last World Cup appearance was in 1986, and they secured their place in this tournament after defeating Bolivia in a qualifying playoff. Arnold acknowledges the pressures on the team, fueled by the passionate support of Iraqi fans.
- •Iraq plays Norway in their World Cup opener on June 16, 2026.
- •Graham Arnold urges players to believe and be brave on the field.
- •Iraq qualified after a 2-1 win against Bolivia in March.
- •Their last World Cup appearance was in 1986, where they lost all their matches.
- •Arnold highlights the pressure from passionate Iraqi football fans.
- 1:53 AMYahoo Sports — Iraq coach urges outsiders to 'shock the world'
"Iraq coach Graham Arnold said there is no room for fear as his unfancied side prepare to face Erling Haaland and Norway in their first World Cup match in 40 years.Simply getting to the finals was an enormous achievement for Iraq, who last graced the World Cup in 1986, but for Arnold that is not enough.
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