Basra – IA - Abdul Rahman Al-Maliki
The President of the Iraqi Football Federation, Adnan Darjal, described our national team’s draw with its Jordanian counterpart as a taste of loss, expressing his hope for compensation in the next Amman match.
Darjal told the (INA), “The national team’s draw with Jordan was a draw with the taste of loss, stressing that the match does not befit the name and reputation of the Iraqi team.”
He added, “This match is not the end, and compensation will be made in the next Sultanate of Oman match.”
Today, our Iraqi national team tied with its Jordanian counterpart without goals in the match that took place at the Trunk of Palm Stadium in Basra, in the fifth round of the second group of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
What key challenges does the Iraqi national football team face in the World Cup qualifiers following their draw with Jordan?
Interview with Adnan Darjal: Insights on the Iraqi National Football Team’s Recent Draw with Jordan
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Darjal. Following the recent match between the Iraqi national football team and Jordan, which ended in a goalless draw, could you share your immediate thoughts on the performance?
Adnan Darjal: Thank you for having me. The draw with Jordan indeed felt like a loss. I believe it did not reflect the caliber and reputation of the Iraqi team. As a nation with a rich football heritage, we always aim for excellence and to make our supporters proud.
Editor: You mentioned that this match should not be viewed as the end but rather a stepping stone. What do you envision as the next steps for the team moving forward?
Adnan Darjal: Absolutely. It’s crucial for us to look ahead. Our next match against the Sultanate of Oman will be our opportunity to compensate for this result. We need to analyze our performance against Jordan, learn from our mistakes, and return stronger against Oman. Each game is a chance to grow and improve, and our focus will be on delivering a compelling performance.
Editor: The match was part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. How do you assess the current position of the Iraqi national team in this qualification process?
Adnan Darjal: Currently, we are in a challenging spot. While the draw was disappointing, we are still very much in the race for qualification. Every game counts, and with strategic preparation, I believe we can secure the points needed to advance. It’s about consistency and determination now.
Editor: From your perspective as the President of the Iraqi Football Federation, what are the broader implications of this match for Iraqi football?
Adnan Darjal: This draw serves as a wake-up call for all of us involved in the sport in Iraq—from the players to the coaching staff and administration. It highlights the need for better training, strategic planning, and mental resilience. We must galvanize our efforts to create a robust footballing infrastructure and foster young talent so that we can rise to international standards.
Editor: What practical advice would you offer to aspiring young footballers in Iraq following this match’s outcome?
Adnan Darjal: Aspiring footballers should not be discouraged by this result. Instead, they should use it as motivation to work harder and never take a single opportunity for granted. Focus on your training, remain disciplined, and learn from every encounter on the pitch—both wins and losses—because every experience builds character and skill.
Editor: Lastly, do you have a message for Iraqi football fans as the team prepares for the upcoming challenges?
Adnan Darjal: To our passionate fans, your support means everything to us. We understand your concerns and share your frustrations. We are committed to turning our collective efforts into results. Stay with us on this journey; every challenge is an opportunity, and we promise to give our best in the matches ahead. Together, we can make Iraqi football proud!
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Darjal, for your insights and for sharing your vision for the future of Iraqi football.