Other opponents in Group A are Lebanon, Syria and the United Arab Emirates.
In the contemporary era, especially during the reign of , the two countries had bad relations and fought the for eight years.
Iraq united behind football stars.
In July 2007, Iraq kicked off their campaign.
In a series of firsts, Baba soon became the first Iraqi player a referee would send off, leading Iraqis to portray Baba as a fighter for the people.
It brings back to our minds the story of Hijra migration of our prophet Mohammed from his home in order to spread Islam and teach the priciples of right and virtue.