Basra to host Iraq’s four-nation Asian Cup rehearsal

Iraq are planning to stage a four-team friendly tournament in Basra in November as part of their preparations for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia.

The Iraq Football Association has formally approached Iran, Uzbekistan and Jordan, as well as several other Asian national teams, about taking part in the proposed competition, according to association member Ahmed Al-Mousawi, speaking to Iraqi news agency Shafaq News.

Iraq and Iran are currently expected to participate, while discussions with the Uzbekistan Football Association and a fourth Asian team are continuing. Jordan remains one of the leading options to complete the line-up.

The tournament would give Iraq the opportunity to assess their technical and physical readiness against strong opponents during a long-term preparation programme for upcoming continental commitments. The 2027 AFC Asian Cup is the main focus of that planning.

Strong Asian opposition

The quality of the potential participants would add particular value to the event. All four teams currently being considered for the tournament also took part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

That would provide Iraq with the chance to face opponents who have recently competed at the highest level of international football and experienced the demands of a global tournament. The proposed matches are therefore intended to offer a significant test for the Iraq national team, known as the “Lions of Mesopotamia”, before the next major continental finals.

The Iraq Football Association is understood to regard the November tournament as an important part of its build-up. The plan would bring together Iraq and Iran, with Uzbekistan and either Jordan or another Asian side completing the field if the remaining negotiations are concluded.

No final confirmation has yet been given for the full list of participants. Iraq and Iran are the only teams officially involved on the basis of the current arrangements, while talks with the Uzbek side and the fourth potential participant remain in progress.

Basra venue

Basra, in southern Iraq, has previously hosted a series of international matches and regional competitions. The province also has sports infrastructure considered suitable for staging an event of this scale, making it the preferred location for the proposed friendlies.

The Iraq Football Association hopes the city can provide an appropriate setting for the tournament while allowing the national team to gain valuable competitive preparation at home. The event is being planned as part of the country’s wider effort to improve readiness for major Asian football challenges.

With Saudi Arabia set to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals, Iraq are seeking regular tests against leading teams from the continent. A four-team event in Basra would allow them to play high-level opposition in a concentrated period and continue building towards the tournament.