Assyrian players feature in Iraq’s playoff - clinching win over UAE in Basra

Two Assyrian footballers featured in Iraq’s squad on a decisive night in Basra, where the national team defeated the United Arab Emirates to secure a place in the intercontinental playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Midfielder Aimar Sher started the match, while Kevin Yakob was named among the substitutes, another moment of visibility for Assyrians competing at the highest level of international football. Defender Rebin Sulaka was ruled out of the match due to an injury.

The victory, delivered in front of a packed crowd at Basra International Stadium, pushed Iraq one step closer to returning to the World Cup stage. It capped a tightly contested qualifying campaign in which the team’s depth, maturity, and tactical discipline proved decisive.

The last time Iraq reached a World Cup was 39 years ago, when legendary Assyrian coach Ammo Baba guided the nation to qualify for the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, a milestone that remains a point of pride for Assyrians across the region and the diaspora.

Aimar Sher: From Kirkuk to Norway's Eliteserien

Born in Kirkuk before his family resettled in Sweden, Aimar Sher, named after Argentinian footballer Pablo Aimar, has emerged as one of Iraq’s most technically gifted midfielders. He currently plays for Sarpsborg 08 in Norway’s Eliteserien.

Sher joined the Norwegian club on a three-year deal after a stint with Spezia in Italy’s Serie B and a loan spell at Groningen in the Dutch Eredivisie. At Sarpsborg 08, he has earned praise for his line-breaking passes, mobility, and constant involvement in the build-up. Coaches and analysts alike note his competitiveness and his commitment to giving “100 percent” every match.

In 2025, Sher officially switched his international allegiance from Sweden to Iraq, a decision approved by FIFA. For him, representing Iraq is both professional and deeply personal, a way to honour his roots and contribute to a team where he says he feels valued and important.

Kevin Yakob: A Danish Superliga Mainstay

Also representing the Assyrian community is Kevin Yakob, a versatile midfielder for AGF Aarhus in the Danish Superliga. Born in Gothenburg to Assyrian parents from Basra, Yakob developed through several Swedish clubs, including Assyriska BK, IFK Göteborg, and BK Häcken, before making the move to Denmark in 2022.

Having previously appeared for Sweden’s U19 national team, Yakob later committed to Iraq at the senior level. Known for his work rate, versatility, and ability to drive play forward, Yakob remained on the bench in Basra but his inclusion reflects the expanding role of Assyrian talent within Iraq’s national setup. Yakob is known for his distinctive "Baggiye" celebration where he imitates the Assyrian dance after scoring a goal.

The Assyrian contribution to Iraqi Football: From pioneers to the present

Through pioneers such as Ammo Baba and Youra Eshaya, institutions like Nadi Al-Athori, and modern players including Justin Meram and Rebin Sulaka, Assyrians have consistently shaped Iraq’s footballing identity.

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A Proud Moment for Assyrians in International Football

Sher and Yakob’s involvement comes at a time of growing Assyrian visibility in global football, with players across Europe competing in top leagues and international tournaments. For many in the diaspora, seeing two Assyrian footballers contribute to Iraq’s World Cup push is both symbolic and inspiring. Several other Assyrian players may also be called up in the coming qualifiers, including Frans Putros, Peter Gwargis, Lucas Shlimon, and André Alsanati.

As Iraq prepares for the intercontinental playoff, both Sher and Yakob are expected to remain important members of the squad. Their presence, whether on the pitch or on the bench, highlights the continuing impact of Assyrian talent on Iraqi football.