+34
Ex-Aussie boss’ future in doubt as ‘unfair’ rule triggers crisis meeting despite hero status
Flop of the year contender for Endrick? | 00:29Former Socceroos boss Graham Arnold’s future as Iraq manager is in doubt as an “emergency meeting” is held to determine his fate.
Arnold, who oversaw Iraq’s qualification to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, is in the gun following the nation’s elimination from the 2026 Arabian Gulf Cup in extraordinary circumstances. Get all the latest football news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. The 63-year-old’s team finished level on points, equal on goal difference and had the exact same amount of goals scored and conceded as Group A rivals Oman.
So, the Gulf Cup regulations determined that a drawing of lots would be the tie-breaker, ignoring Arnold’s arguments that Iraq’s superior FIFA ranking - 63rd in the world versus 80th-ranked Oman - should be the deciding factor. World ranking is used in FIFA’s competitions in such situations, but the Gulf Cup has different rules.
“Our level is higher than Oman’s and our ranking is higher. If we want to be fair, we have to follow the rules. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 22: Graham Arnold, Head Coach of Iraq, reacts after the team's 0-3 defeat in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium on June 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Oman ultimately won the random draw, meaning they booked themselves a semi-final date with Group B winners the United Arab Emirates, and condemned Iraq to a second-straight group stage exit in the regional tournament. In the aftermath, Iraq television network Alrabiaa Sports TV reported that the country’s Football Association are “seriously considering” sacking Arnold following an “emergency meeting”.
“The idea of dismissing Arnold is reportedly backed by the majority of Iraqi FA members, who view Iraq’s Gulf Cup campaign as a disaster, particularly regarding his management of the team and squad selection,” Alrabiaa Sports TV’s report stated. Another report from the same network stated that a local coach will replace Arnold on an interim basis if the Australian is given his marching orders.
Former Iraq player and head coach Adnan Hamad - who has coached the national team three times already - has already thrown his hat into the ring.
“Every time Iraq lose, there is talk about me returning to coach the national team,” Hamad said via AD SportsTV. “Of course, it would be an honour for anyone who loves their country to take charge. “Historically, Iraqi football’s greatest achievements have always been associated with local coaches.
” At the World Cup earlier this year, Iraq were drawn in a group of death - losing 4-1 to quarter-finalists Norway, 3-0 to semi-finalists France and 5-0 to Senegal.for guiding the team to the World Cup for the first time in four decades. If he is sacked, it will also end the possibility of a reunion with the Socceroos - who have been draw in the same group as Iraq - at next year’s Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Aussie breaks 24-year-old world record at national short course swimming titlesTwo-time Paralympic gold medallist Rowan Crothers creates history at the Australian Short Course Championships in Sydney.
Read more »
Breaking Bad stars announce tour for Aussie fansThe stars behind one of TV’s most iconic duos are reuniting for a series of live shows.
Read more »
Aussie make call on skipper as star-studded squad named for first post-WC assignmentAussie make call on skipper as star-studded squad named for first post-WC assignment
Read more »
UFC 2026: Robert Whittaker eyes Jan Blachowicz at UFC Sydney Fight Night 2027‘He’s the one’: Aussie UFC star calls out former world champ for blockbuster Sydney return
Read more »