Shock Move: Iraq Bring in Saad Natiq After Sulaga Injury Ahead of UAE Qualifiers

Defensive reshuffle after Sulaga injury

The Iraqi national team, led by Australian coach Graham Arnold, named veteran defender Saad Natiq to join the squad after confirming that star centre-back Rebin Sulaga is injured and will miss the two upcoming matches against the United Arab Emirates in the Asian World Cup Qualifiers.

Medical tests during the current training camp showed Sulaga is suffering from a muscular injury that requires rest to avoid risking his participation in the remaining games.

The medical staff confirmed the problem after a training session, revealing that the injury will keep him out for several weeks, forcing Arnold to act quickly and replace him with Natiq, a defender with extensive experience and steady leadership.

Arnold's plan and UAE clash

Natiq is considered one of Iraq's best defenders in recent years, having featured in numerous continental and regional tournaments, known for his physical presence, solid positioning, and aerial ability. His addition strengthens the back line ahead of the decisive two legs against the UAE.

Arnold expressed regret over Sulaga’s injury but praised the fighting spirit and commitment shown by the player during the camp. He added that the team will continue preparations with a high collective spirit and confidence in all players to cover for absences.

Arnold said: "Sulaga was a key element in our defensive organisation, but injuries are part of football. We have ready alternatives, and Saad Natiq is among those with experience and tactical discipline, and I am confident he can perform at a high level."

The Lions of Mesopotamia aim to secure a positive result in the first leg on Thursday before the return in Basra on Tuesday, with a large home crowd expected to back Iraq.

The squad is undergoing intensive training, focusing on technical and tactical drills, plus video analysis of UAE to study strengths and weaknesses. Players have shown strong motivation to deliver a performance worthy of Iraq’s football history and continental standing.

Sulaga's absence compounds injuries after also ruling out Yusuf Al-Amin, winger from AEK Larnaca, due to injury, and Majed Must for health issues. This necessitated further reshuffles, including Hussein Ali’s call-up in replacement for Amin before the Saad Natiq move was finalized.

Iraq enjoys strong public and media support ahead of the UAE ties, with optimism about reaching the next stage (the global playoff), thanks to a balanced midfield and attack and the emergence of several talented youngsters. Arnold emphasized readiness, stating the team will approach every minute with winning intent and will respect UAE while also believing in their own ability to deliver.

The team finished daily training at the main facility under the Iraqi Football Association’s watch, with positive chemistry and unity among players.

Defensive resolve and renewed ambition

The Iraqi squad now trains with a renewed sense of purpose, focusing on discipline, fitness, and tactical understanding, aiming to translate preparation into a favorable result against UAE and the path to the world cup finals, a dream Iraq hasn’t realized since 1986, while UAE has appeared once in 1990.

Humor Break

Punchline 1: If defending were a superpower, Saad Natiq would be Captain Clean Sheet. Punchline 2: In football, even the ball knows when to go to the back post—preferably to Iraq's back line, where it’ll stay for a while.