Aymen Hussein
Injured in first half
Hussein was forced off with an apparent groin injury in the 26th minute of Monday's match against France.
Analysis: Hussein would have to exit the field with what appeared to be a groin injury Monday, walking off on his own weight despite the apparent discomfort. This is a rough loss for the team, as he is their captain and also scored in their opener, hoping it is nothing that will knock him out of the group stage finale. He was replaced by Ali Al Hamadi, a potential replacement moving forward if Hussein misses further time.
Scores in both lets
Hussein scored one goal to go with an own goal, three shots (one on goal) and one chance created in Tuesday's 4-1 defeat against Norway.
Analysis: Hussein recorded a rare feat in Tuesday's match, scoring a goal for Iraq while also netting an own goal, the first such occurrence in a World Cup competition since 2018. Despite the mishap, the forward delivered a solid attacking performance, tallying three shots, winning two aerial duels, and maintaining an 80 percent pass accuracy. Paired with Al Hamadi, Hussein serves as the focal point of the attack, however, with two difficult matchups remaining, scoring opportunities for the side may be limited.
Set to lead line
Hussein is expected to lead the line for Iraq at the World Cup, as well as a potential role on penalties.
Analysis: Hussein scored a massive goal against Bolivia to send Iraq to the World Cup, and it was no fluke, as his work rate and physicality buoyed Iraq throughout their qualification campaign. The forward should play a huge role at the World Cup and should split penalties with his exceptional ball-striking. It's a tough group for Iraq, but if they are going to salvage any results it will require more heroics from Hussein.
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