Zidane Iqbal, a 23-year-old midfielder from Manchester United’s academy and FC Utrecht, is set to represent Iraq in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks a historic milestone as the first player of Pakistani heritage to feature in a men’s FIFA World Cup.
Born to a Pakistani father and an Iraqi mother, Iqbal proudly displays both flags on his uniform. He told BBC Sport that he was surprised to learn about this achievement, which adds another landmark to his career, including being the first British South Asian player in nearly two decades to appear in the UEFA Champions League.
For Pakistan, where football has never qualified for the World Cup and its team is ranked 198th globally, Iqbal’s participation carries significant symbolic value. Ahmed Shahzad of Pakistani Talents noted that fans’ response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying this will be their first time feeling represented on the grandest stage.
Iraq secured qualification after an unprecedented 21-match campaign, making it their second World Cup appearance and first since Mexico in 1986. Iqbal sees himself as part of a historic moment, noting that both tournaments were held in Mexico. Despite facing tough competition against teams like France, Norway, and Senegal, he is embracing the underdog role.
For millions of Pakistani fans, this will be a defining moment on the global stage, with Iqbal’s performance carrying special significance as the first player from their community to represent his country at such an elite level.