Iraq Football Team Faces Challenges Upon Arrival for FIFA World Cup 2026

The Iraq football team faced significant challenges upon their arrival in the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Striker Aymen Hussein was detained and questioned for over seven hours at the airport, while team photographer Talal Salah was denied entry. Despite these hurdles, the team received a grand welcome from enthusiastic fans. Coach Graham Arnold remains optimistic about their chances in the tournament, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the World Cup. Iraq is set to kick off their campaign against Norway on June 17, with matches against France and Senegal to follow.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 09:04 IST

Iraq Striker Questioned at Airport

Aymen Hussein, a key striker for the Iraq football team, encountered significant scrutiny upon his arrival in the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026, as reported by Iraqi news outlets. Hussein was detained at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, where he underwent questioning for over seven hours before being permitted entry. The Iraqi squad landed in Chicago around 1:00 AM local time, and while the majority of the coaching staff and players passed through customs without issue, Hussein was held back for further inquiries. Additionally, team photographer Talal Salah was denied entry and sent back after being interrogated for more than ten hours.

Warm Reception for Iraq Team

Grand Welcome For Iraq

Despite the challenges faced by some members, the Iraq football team received a warm welcome from fans at the airport. Numerous supporters gathered to cheer for the team, with videos shared on social media showcasing fans waving flags and celebrating as the players made their way out of the airport. This marks Iraq's return to the FIFA World Cup after a long absence, making their debut 40 years ago.

Iraq's Upcoming Matches in the Tournament

Iraq's Schedule For FIFA World Cup 2026

The Iraq team is set to begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, facing Norway on June 17. They are placed in Group I, with subsequent matches against France on June 23 and Senegal on June 27.

Coach's Optimism Amidst Challenges

'We Can Shock The World' - Iraq Coach

Despite the formidable challenges ahead, Iraq's coach Graham Arnold remains hopeful about his team's prospects. "We qualified last. If you consider the individual players and their transfer values, we would likely be the lowest-ranked team at the World Cup," Arnold stated. "However, it's the World Cup, and anything is possible. Our players possess a strong fighting spirit. It's 11 against 11, and if we can win our individual battles, we have the potential to surprise everyone."