Iraq Concludes Preparations for Oman Clash in Gulf Cup 27 Opener

The Iraqi national football team wrapped up its final preparations at King Abdullah Sports City stadiums in Jeddah. This comes ahead of their opening match tomorrow against Oman in the Arabian Gulf Cup (Gulf Cup 27). The last training session, led by coach Graham Arnold, showed intense player focus, reflecting a strong desire for a standout performance and a positive result to please Iraqi fans at the tournament's start. The recent training unit garnered significant attention from the Executive Office of the Football Association. Union President Younis Mahmoud arrived directly at the stadium after landing at Jeddah Airport today afternoon. His visit underscores the President's commitment to supporting the team and motivating players. He stressed the importance of the opening match and the necessity of victory for a strong tournament debut. This support positively boosted the morale and enthusiasm of all national team members. **Arnold: High Focus, Aiming for the Title** At the press conference for tomorrow's match, national team head coach Graham Arnold confirmed the "Lions of Mesopotamia's" readiness. He noted the team arrived in Jeddah with high focus and a clear goal: to win the title. Arnold stated: "We possess significant technical capabilities and experience to compete for the title, not just win matches. We have an excellent mix of World Cup veterans and talented young players with great potential." Regarding preparations, he explained: "Though the preparation period was only two days, focusing on physical aspects, the rest of the players are fully ready, except Ali Al-Hamadi, who was excluded due to injury." Graham acknowledged Oman's strength and experience but emphasized his primary focus on Iraq and working with a family spirit to delight their fans. **Captain Ayman Hussein Highlights Team Unity and Fan Support** Team captain Ayman Hussein confirmed in the press conference that the "Lions" play as one unit. He stressed that Iraqi fans are the players' primary supporters in all tournaments and their main inspiration for the Gulf title. Striker Ayman Hussein underlined the importance of solidarity and team spirit. He noted the team's significant changes with new, important players, adding: "As experienced players, we work as one family to support the young talents, following coach Arnold's directives." **Player Confidence and Determination** In media statements during the training, defender Youssef Al-Imam affirmed the group's readiness for a strong performance. He said the coaching staff emphasized total focus and self-assessment before facing opponents. He confirmed Iraqi fans would be the biggest motivator. Forward Saif Rashid expressed great confidence in his teammates, explaining everyone understands the responsibility for a positive start and praising coach Arnold's high trust in the players. **Mustafa Qabeel Joins to Replace Al-Hamadi** Separately, striker Mustafa Qabeel is expected to arrive in Jeddah tomorrow, Wednesday, to join the national team's delegation. He will replace Ali Al-Hamadi, who was ruled out due to injury. Qabeel had left the Olympic team's training camp in Serbia at the official request of coach Graham Arnold.