Sports Desk: Zidane Iqbal, the British-born footballer of Pakistani and Iraqi heritage representing Iraq at the FIFA World Cup 2026, is set to make history while proudly displaying both sides of his identity.
If selected to play in Iraq’s World Cup match against Norway, Zidane Iqbal is expected to become the first footballer of Pakistani origin to appear in a FIFA World Cup match.
Iqbal’s father is from Pakistan and his mother is from Iraq, while he was born and raised in Manchester, England. Despite representing Iraq internationally, he continues to celebrate his Pakistani roots.
His football boots will feature both national flags, with the Pakistani flag displayed on the right boot and the Iraqi flag on the left, symbolizing his connection to both countries.
Speaking in an interview, Iqbal said he values both identities equally and described his father as one of the most influential people in his life who played a major role in supporting his football career.
He expressed hope that his achievement would inspire young Pakistani footballers and encourage them to believe that reaching the highest level of international football is possible.
