Iraq players blame individual errors after 3-0 defeat to France

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's national team players attributed their 3-0 loss to France in the 2026 World Cup to individual mistakes. Forward Ali Al-Hamadi said Iraq performed well in the first half but that errors against a higher-ranked opponent carried heavy consequences. Midfielder Zidane Iqbal said the stoppage time added before halftime affected the game's rhythm, though he added that this was no excuse, noting that mistakes at a World Cup are punished immediately. Defender Youssef Al-Amin said the extended break in play worked against his side and that France capitalized on its chances, adding that the team must correct its shortcomings. Defender Rebin Sulaka said the coach told the players at halftime to lift their confidence and thanked Iraqi fans who attended the match in Philadelphia, calling for support at the next fixture in Toronto. Iraq, which lost 3-0 to France in its second group match, will next face Senegal in the tournament.