Baghdad – IA – Ali Al-Maliki
The President of the Iraqi National Olympic Committee, Aqeel Muften, affirmed his great confidence in the ability of our national team players to correct the course in the Oman match, and make up for the previous match against their Jordanian counterpart in the World Cup qualifiers.
Muften told the (INA): “The circumstances of the match were not in our team’s favor, but our youth are champions, and we all trust them to compensate, as well as the coach and technical staff. We hope they will correct the mistakes and return to the path of victories.”
Muftin added: “There is no doubt that our heroes are capable of taking responsibility and correcting the result of the Jordan match, and we hope that they will achieve victory in the next match and enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.”
Regarding the reform measures he recently took to dissolve the clubs’ administrative bodies, Muften stressed that “all clubs proven to have committed legal violations will be subject to legal procedures without exception, based on the reports of the Clubs Office and the Legal Department, stressing the importance of adhering to the laws and regulations to achieve the desired sports reform.” And ensuring the continued development of Iraqi sports.”
What are the key reforms being implemented in Iraqi sports to enhance club management and accountability?
Interview: Insights on Iraqi Sports Reform and World Cup Aspirations with Aqeel Muften, President of the Iraqi National Olympic Committee
By the Time.news Editor
Q: Aqeel Muften, thank you for joining us today. You recently expressed confidence in the Iraqi national football team’s ability to rebound against Oman after a tough match against Jordan. What was your assessment of that previous game?
A: Thank you for having me. The match against Jordan had its challenges, and unfortunately, the circumstances were not in our favor. However, I firmly believe in our players. They are champions with immense potential, and I trust that they will learn from their mistakes. With the right mindset and support from the coaching staff, I have no doubt that they will return to winning form in the upcoming match.
Q: Your optimism reflects a strong belief in the team’s capabilities. How critical is the upcoming match against Oman for Iraq’s World Cup qualifying chances?
A: It’s absolutely crucial. Winning against Oman can significantly enhance our chances of qualifying for the World Cup. Every match in this qualifying round holds weight, and our heroes must rise to the occasion, take responsibility, and secure a victory that can restore morale and momentum.
Q: Beyond the football pitch, you mentioned recent reforms regarding club management in Iraqi sports. Could you elaborate on these changes and their importance for the future of Iraqi sports?
A: Certainly. We are implementing stringent measures to ensure all clubs adhere to legal regulations. Any club found in violation will face legal consequences as per the recommendations from our Clubs Office and Legal Department. This is a vital step for achieving comprehensive sports reform in Iraq, enabling us to develop and uplift the standards of our national sports. Adhering to the rule of law will instill accountability and ultimately benefit our athletes and sports organizations.
Q: What message do you have for young athletes and fans regarding these developments in Iraqi sports?
A: To our young athletes, I want to emphasize that they are the future of Iraqi sports. Their dedication and hard work can lead us to greatness. For our fans, I encourage continued support for our teams. Your unwavering belief and enthusiasm can inspire our players to excel. Together, we are on the path to positive change and success.
Q: As president of the Iraqi National Olympic Committee, what are your expectations moving forward as the World Cup qualifiers continue?
A: My expectations are high, as I have great faith in our team. The upcoming matches are important not only for World Cup qualification but also for building a stronger football culture in Iraq. My vision includes long-term development strategies that focus on nurturing talent, enhancing facilities, and fostering a competitive spirit among our athletes. We are committed to translating our challenges into opportunities for growth.
Q: Thank you, Aqeel Muften, for sharing your insights and vision for the future of Iraqi sports. We wish you and the national team the best of luck in the upcoming match and beyond.
A: Thank you very much! I appreciate the opportunity to share our journey, and I look forward to exciting times ahead for Iraqi sports.