The Iraq national soccer team, known as the "Lions of Mesopotamia," has a rich history in Asian and international football. Founded in 1948, the team is governed by the Iraq Football Association and is a member of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

History and Major Successes

• AFC Asian Cup: Iraq's most significant achievement came in 2007 when they won the AFC Asian Cup. This victory was a remarkable feat, considering the challenging circumstances in the country at the time. Iraq defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the final, with Younis Mahmoud scoring the winning goal.
• Olympic Games: The team reached the quarter-finals in the 1980 Moscow Olympics and made it to the semi-finals at the 2004 Athens Olympics, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
• Arab Nations Cup: Iraq has won this regional competition four times (1964, 1966, 1985, and 1988), asserting their dominance in the Arab world during those periods.
• Gulf Cup of Nations: Iraq has been victorious in the Gulf Cup four times, with their wins coming in 1979, 1984, 1988, and 2023.

Notable Players

• Younis Mahmoud: One of Iraq's most famous players, he captained the team during their 2007 AFC Asian Cup triumph and scored the winning goal in the final.
• Ahmed Radhi: Renowned for scoring Iraq's only goal in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, he is considered one of the country's greatest players.
• Hussein Saeed: The all-time leading goal scorer for Iraq, Saeed was instrumental in Iraq's successes throughout the 1980s.

Notable Coaches

• Jorvan Vieira: The Brazilian coach led Iraq to their historic 2007 AFC Asian Cup victory, bringing hope and joy to the nation.
• Amir Al-Ammari: An influential figure in the development of Iraqi football, known for his tactical acumen and contributions to youth development.

The Iraq national team continues to inspire and unite fans, representing resilience and passion in the face of challenges. Their achievements on the field are a testament to their dedication and talent.