The Beautiful Game in Troubled Times: Iraq’s Football Saga ft. Hassanane Balal

This week co-hosts Francesco and Guy talk to Hassanane Balal, host and founder of the Iraqi Football Podcast. Hassanane explains how sport and politics are closely connected in the football-mad country, and in particular how football provided unity and hope during Iraq's darker days. Hassanane points to Iraq winning the Asian championship in 2007 as a key moment and discusses the role and impact of foreign-born Iraqi players alongside Iraq's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. One not to miss!Once you've listened to this episode, check out the Iraq Football Podcast as well.