Arnold says Iraq still in the fight after Norway defeat

Graham Arnold says Iraq have not been ruled out of the World Cup race after a 4-1 defeat to Norway in their Group I opener.

The Australian coach praised his side’s bravery and said they matched one of the group’s leading teams in spells, while also stressing that individual mistakes were costly at this level. Iraq did show some encouraging moments, even if Norway, under Ståle Solbakken, finished the game in control.

Arnold repeated the view he held before the tournament that Iraq have “nothing to lose” and can still surprise people. He said the defeat should be used as a lesson rather than a setback that ends their hopes.

Iraq are bottom of Group I after the opening round, but Arnold also highlighted the value of playing at a first World Cup in 40 years. They face France next, before a potentially decisive meeting with Senegal.