Iraq has called up Ahmed Hassan Makenzie to its 2026 World Cup squad to replace Ahmed Yahya, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury, the national team announced on Saturday.
“Based on the medical report, head coach Graham Arnold has decided to call up Ahmed Makenzie and include him in the final squad for the 2026 World Cup finals instead of Ahmed Yahya,” the national team said in a statement. X.
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The decision came as the Iraqi delegation arrived in Chicago in the early morning hours to prepare for the tournament.
The tournament marks Iraq’s first appearance at the World Cup since its only participation four decades ago. It will compete in Group I against France, Senegal and Norway.
Published on June 7, 2026
