Zidane Iqbal was at Mexico City Airport awaiting his flight back to Manchester, where he was born and raised, when a friend sent a message. Just 24 hours earlier, he had helped Iraq reach the 2026 World Cup finals with a play-off win over Bolivia. The friend informed him that he would be the first player of Pakistani heritage to appear in a FIFA World Cup when Iraq faces Norway. Iqbal shared the news with his father, and both were surprised. His father is Pakistani, and Iqbal said he holds deep respect for that side of his family while playing for Iraq and having grown up in England.
Iqbal’s mother, born in Samawah, Iraq, provided his eligibility for the national team. He wears the flags of both Iraq and Pakistan on his boots as a sign of respect for each heritage, describing them as equal in his eyes. His involvement with Iraq began after an Instagram message from a fan page led to contact with the Iraq Football Association. Officials arranged video calls, and in 2021 he visited the country for the first time.
Initial visits brought culture shock, but repeated trips helped him appreciate cities such as Baghdad, Basra and Erbil. He noted ongoing development, including new shopping centres. Support from fans and the football association strengthened his connection to Iraq, which he now regards as home.
Born in Manchester, Iqbal progressed through Manchester United’s academy for twelve years and made his senior debut in the Champions League at age 18. He later joined Dutch club Utrecht. Iraq’s qualification marks their first World Cup appearance in four decades.
