Iraq began its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a disappointing 4-1 loss to Norway. However, the match still produced a historic moment that attracted attention from football fans in Pakistan and beyond.
Midfielder Zidane Iqbal entered the game in the 59th minute and became the first footballer of Pakistani origin to play in a FIFA World Cup match. While Pakistan has never qualified for the tournament, the appearance of Zidane Iqbal gave Pakistani football supporters a special reason to follow the event.
The 23-year-old was born in Manchester, England. His full name is Zidane Ammar Iqbal. His father, Aamir Iqbal, belongs to Sahiwal in Punjab, Pakistan, while his mother, Ayat, is from Iraq. Due to his family background, he was eligible to represent England, Pakistan, or Iraq at the international level.
The journey that led Zidane Iqbal to Iraq’s national team is also unique. According to reports, an Iraqi football-focused social media page first contacted him and confirmed his Iraqi roots. After that, the Iraqi Football Federation reached out to him and his family through several video calls.
The federation worked closely with the player and eventually convinced him to represent Iraq. In a later interview, Zidane Iqbal revealed that the support shown by Iraqi fans and football officials played an important role in his decision. He said the warmth and interest he received made a strong impression on him.
Football observers have noted that Pakistan Football Federation was also aware of his development as a young player. However, Iraq offered a more established football structure and better opportunities for international growth. This reportedly influenced his final choice.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Zidane Iqbal hopes his story can inspire young people from Asian and Arab communities. He believes that hard work and determination can help aspiring athletes achieve their goals.
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Although Iraq could not secure a positive result against Norway, the match remains significant for Pakistani football fans. The appearance of Zidane Iqbal on football’s biggest stage marked a historic milestone and highlighted the growing impact of players with diverse backgrounds in international football.
