Iraq midfielder Amir Al-Ammari was interviewed by FIFA. The player spoke about the excitement of fulfilling his World Cup dream, reflected on the team’s growth during the World Cup qualifiers, and looked ahead to the upcoming matches.

FIFA: What does playing in the World Cup mean to you?

Amir Al-Ammari: It means everything to me. I've been fighting for this for years. As a child, watching on TV, I dreamed of playing on this stage, and now that dream has come true. I'm about to compete in the World Cup, and I still can't believe it. I'm overwhelmed with emotion. I need to slowly calm down, and perhaps when I return home, I'll truly feel this joy.

Did the challenges of the World Cup qualifiers strengthen the team's cohesion?

Amir Al-Ammari: Absolutely. The team began its World Cup qualifying journey in 2023 and has experienced ups and downs along the way. In the second stage, we were in excellent form and remained undefeated; then we suffered consecutive tough losses, especially against Palestine, when the situation was once very unfavorable. But the Iraqi people have always fully supported us, and the team has always managed to overcome difficulties. We did it. I believe every match has made us stronger.

With the efforts of the new coaching staff and all team members, the entire team continues to improve, and our goal has always been clear: to secure a World Cup ticket. I am truly proud to have achieved these results alongside my teammates; we are like family.

Question: How much responsibility and pride do you feel when wearing the Iraqi jersey?

Amir Al-Ammari: I feel immense pressure in every match because countless people have such high hopes. I play not only for myself, but also for my teammates, the coaching staff, and every compatriot in Iraq and abroad. For me, the joy people express after the team wins is far more valuable than the victory itself. I am doing what I love and bringing joy to others, which is why I cherish every moment I wear the Iraqi jersey.

Question: What are you looking forward to most in your first World Cup?

Amir Al-Ammari: Everything excites me. I want to personally experience the organization and atmosphere of the World Cup. We played in the Qatar Asian Cup, so we have already had a taste of major international competitions, but the World Cup will clearly be on a much grander scale. Our group features several star players from top leagues and is attracting a lot of attention. Competing against the world’s best players will be another new milestone in my career.

What does Iraq hope to show the world at the World Cup?

Amir Al-Ammari: We want to demonstrate the team's never-give-up fighting spirit. Whether on the field or in the face of various off-field challenges, Iraqis are always resilient. We will play with this belief and show everyone the passion and strength of Iraqi players.

Does playing against stars like Mbappé boost your fighting spirit?

Amir Al-Ammari: Absolutely. Everyone brings out their best when facing top opponents. It was the same when we played Japan; they also have world-class players, and when we faced them in the Asian Cup, all of our performance levels improved significantly.

I think the most important thing is to enjoy the moment and not put too much pressure on ourselves. After all, our opponents are just people too, and ultimately, it is eleven against eleven on the field. When facing top players, I will enjoy the game to the fullest while giving my all and fighting hard.

With up to three teams qualifying from each group at this World Cup, does Iraq have a chance to pull off an upset?

Amir Al-Ammari: Of course, there is a chance. We need to take it one step at a time, focus on each match, and not be swayed by outside noise. A football match ultimately lasts 90 minutes, with eleven players on each side. For us, it is about approaching every game seriously and striving for better results. We already feel honored to be on the World Cup stage.