Iraq U-20 squad opens training in Baghdad ahead of AFC Asian Cup qualifiers

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's under-20 men's national football team began training in Baghdad on Saturday as preparations for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers, set to start on August 25. The opening session was held at the Ali Hussein Shahab Stadium under the Youth and Sports Ministry, with Iraqi Football Association President Younis Mahmoud attending to meet the technical and administrative staff. In a brief address to the players, Mahmoud said the federation would provide full support for the qualification campaign and ensure the necessary resources for success. He described representing Iraq at the continental qualifiers as a significant responsibility and urged the squad to continue working with commitment. Iraq has been drawn in Group 6 of the qualifiers alongside the United Arab Emirates, Turkmenistan and host nation Thailand. The Iraqi Football Association said it would continue to stand behind the players and coaching staff as the team prepares for the upcoming tournament.