Midfielder Zidane Iqbal has etched his name into football history after becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to appear in a men’s FIFA World Cup match.
The 23-year-old Iraq international reached the milestone when he came off the bench during Iraq’s opening match against Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
Iqbal entered the game in the 59th minute at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as Iraq suffered a 4-1 defeat to Norway. The match also marked a memorable World Cup debut for Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice to help secure victory for his side.
While the result disappointed Iraq, the occasion carried historic significance for Iqbal and millions of football fans with Pakistani roots around the world.
Born in Manchester, England, Iqbal represents Iraq through his mother’s side of the family. His father is Pakistani, giving him a unique connection to two nations with deep personal significance.
A Historic Moment for Pakistani Heritage in Football
Speaking to BBC Sport, Iqbal admitted he did not initially realise the significance of his achievement.
“To be honest, I didn’t even know it myself,” Zidane Iqbal told BBC Sport.
“I followed the account that posted it [that he was the first player of Pakistani heritage to play at a men’s World Cup] and sent it to my dad straight away. I think we were both surprised. When I tried to qualify for the World Cup with Iraq, I didn’t think of anything like this.”
The midfielder paid tribute to his father, whom he credits as one of the most influential figures in his football journey.
“My dad is Pakistani. He’s my father, the man I respect the most in my life, who helped me so much in my career.”
“I play for Iraq, grew up in England, but my dad was born in Pakistan. My grandad was a first-generation there, so I have a lot of respect for that side of my family.”
Iqbal’s achievement comes at a time when football continues to grow in popularity among Pakistanis both at home and abroad. Pakistan has yet to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, making his appearance even more symbolic for many supporters.
Carrying Two Flags With Pride
Iqbal has often spoken about embracing both sides of his heritage. He revealed that he honours his family background by wearing the Iraqi and Pakistani flags on his boots.
“I wear the Iraqi flag on my left side and the Pakistani flag on my right side,” he said.
“I think that’s because I respect both sides.”
“When people ask me what I feel more connected to, I can’t answer. For me, they’re both equal. It’s about respect and something I carry with a lot of pride.”
Iqbal began his professional career at Manchester United, where he progressed through the club’s academy system before making his senior debut. He later moved to Dutch football and has continued his development at club level while becoming an important figure for Iraq’s national team.
Although Iraq’s World Cup campaign started with defeat, Iqbal’s appearance ensured the match will be remembered for more than the scoreline. For many football fans of Pakistani heritage, it represented a groundbreaking moment on the sport’s biggest stage.
