Iraq starts paperwork to call up Bradford City goalkeeper Zekeriya Hadi for Olympic squad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Football Association has begun formal procedures to include young goalkeeper Zekekriya Hadi, who plays for Bradford City in England, in its Olympic national team. A federation source said the overseas players unit was instructed, at the request of the coaching staff, to complete Hadi's file as quickly as possible. The unit has contacted the player's family to prepare the required documents. Hadi recently took part in pre-season preparations with Bradford City, marking his first appearance with the English club at the start of the new season. The coaching staff considers Hadi a promising player, citing his physical and technical attributes in goal. The federation said the move is part of its strategy to draw on Iraqi professionals playing abroad and is aimed at expanding the options available to the Olympic team.