ZURICH (AP) — World Cup-bound Iraq has received FIFA approval for eligibility of two new players who could be selected for the squad.
Players Approved
Nashville SC midfielder Ahmed Qasem and Dundee United defender Dario Naamo have both been cleared to represent Iraq.
Both comply with FIFA rules for a binding change of national eligibility because of family ties to Iraq.
World Cup Qualification
The national team qualified in March for its first World Cup in 40 years, despite travel problems during the Middle East conflict.
Iraq faces a tough group that includes France, Norway and Senegal. The group features stellar forwards Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Sadio Mané.
Coach Background
Iraq coach Graham Arnold previously led his native Australia at the 2022 World Cup. He can now pick two more players nurtured in Europe.
Player Profiles
Ahmed Qasem, 22, was born in Sweden and represented that country at youth level through the Under-21s. He moved to Major League Soccer team Nashville last year from Elfsborg.
Dario Naamo, 20, was born in Finland and was still playing for its Under-21 team in March.