Iraq added Ahmed Hassan Makenzie to its 2026 World Cup squad on June 6 after Ahmed Yahya was sidelined by a hamstring injury, officials announced. The Iraqi national team confirmed that head coach Graham Arnold approved the change following a medical report, saying, "Based on the medical report, head coach Graham Arnold has decided to call up Ahmed Makenzie and register him in the final squad for the 2026 World Cup finals in place of Ahmed Yahya" [1].
The Iraqi delegation arrived in Chicago early on June 6 to begin preparations for the tournament, marking their return after a 40-year absence since their only previous World Cup appearance [1, 2]. Iraq will compete in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway [1, 2].
Makenzie's addition comes at a crucial time as Iraq looks to make a strong impression in their first World Cup campaign since 1986. The team must now quickly integrate the replacement before Group I matches begin.
The squad's registration changes were finalized by the coaching staff immediately upon receiving the medical update on Yahya's injury to ensure compliance with tournament regulations [1, 2].
Iraq's presence in Group I sets up challenging fixtures against established football powers and emerging teams, underscoring the importance of a fully fit and prepared roster. The team’s next major milestones include group-stage matches scheduled in the coming weeks as the World Cup progresses.