Iraq exits World Cup 2026 after heavy defeats, coach Arnold cites errors

The Iraq national football team finished the group stage of the 2026 World Cup without a point, losing 1‑4 to Norway, 0‑3 to France and 0‑5 to Senegal. A red card to Ripein Solaqa in the Senegal match left Iraq with ten men from the 10th minute, contributing to the 5‑0 loss.

Coach Graham Arnold said the team’s 12 goals conceded were largely due to “individual and defensive mistakes”, noting that nine of the goals resulted from the players’ own errors. He described the red card as “a stupid one that made the rest of the match very difficult for us”. Arnold expressed pride in the support the team received but also frustration, and said his contract will end in five to six weeks, after which his future with the Iraqi federation will be discussed.

Arnold stressed the need for bold decisions to improve performance and highlighted the experience gained by the players for future development.