World Cup 2026: France's opponents - Iraqi national team

The French national team will face Iraq during the 2026 World Cup. Let's take a look at the players who make up the team from the Middle East. Among them, Jalal Hassan, the goalkeeper who is the pillar of the team, stands out. Born on May 18, 1991, Jalal plays for Al-Zawraa. The 35-year-old national team captain has 100 international caps to his name, reaching the milestone ahead of the World Cup qualifier against the United Arab Emirates last November. He is the third Iraqi goalkeeper to achieve this feat, joining the ranks of legends such as Raad Hammoudi and Nour Sabri.  Jalal began his career as a laborer, training barefoot in work clothes. He was spotted at the age of 19 and quickly rose to the national team, making his debut against Jordan 15 years ago. Since then, he has participated in three Asian Cups as a starting goalkeeper and six editions of the Gulf Cup, leading Iraq to triumph in the 25th edition in Basra, which was Iraq's first such success in 35 years. Jalal also holds the record for most appearances and clean sheets in World Cup qualifying among Iraqi goalkeepers, making him a key pillar of the Lions of Mesopotamia. --- ## Related Articles 1. [France's Mental Fortitude Prevails After Weather Delays in World Cup](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/frances-mental-fortitude-prevails-after-weather-delays-in-world-cup) 2. [ਵਿਸ਼ਵ ਕੱਪ 2026: 23 ਜੂਨ ਦੇ ਮੈਚਾਂ ਦੇ ਨਤੀਜੇ](https://khidarikhabran.com/khabran/2026-23-1)