Baghdad, Iraq, May 31, 2026: The President of the National Olympic of Iraq, Dr. Aqeel Muften, visited the national football team who are in Spain for a series of friendlies ahead of the FIFA World Cup which will be played in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Dr. Muften arrived in Spain on Friday, May 29, and celebrated the occasion of Eid-Al-Adha with the Iraqi football team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia. He then witnessed the first warm-up friendly against Andorra, with the Lions winning 1-0 thanks to a goal by Ali Yousif in the 20th minute.
The Iraq NOC President conveyed the best wishes of the country’s leadership and its people to the Lions as they carry the hopes of the country in what is Iraq’s second World Cup.
Iraq, coached by Australian Graham Arnold, faces a daunting task at this World Cup, starting against Norway in Boston on June 16 before playing France and Senegal in their group matches.
Iraq will play three friendly matches in Spain against Andorra, Spain and Venezuela before leaving for the United States.
