Iraq coach Graham Arnold said his future beyond the World Cup remains undecided as his contract ends after the tournament and no formal talks have yet taken place, though retirement is not on his mind.

Iraq coach Graham Arnold said Monday he is trying to shield his squad from news of the war in the Middle East as they prepare for a crunch 2026 World Cup playoff against Bolivia.

Iraq made their only appearance at the World Cup in Mexico in 1986.

Australia coach Graham Arnold has lashed out at the "dangerous and unacceptable" pitch in Bangladesh for their football World Cup qualifier, saying he was stressed all match about potential injuries.

The Australia coach did not hesitate to criticise the playing surface offered at Kings Arena.

Australia coach Graham Arnold has included 18-year-old Nestory Irankunda in his 25-man squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Bangladesh and Palestine, days after the Bayern Munich-bound winger complained about being overlooked for selection.

Australia coach Graham Arnold said it has been "quite stressful" preparing to play Palestine next week against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict, but hopes football can bring some joy.

Australia said Wednesday they have maximum respect for Lionel Messi but will do everything they can to stop him when they meet Argentina in a Beijing friendly.

Messi terrorised the Socceroos and scored a sublime goal in a 2-1 win in the last 16 at the World Cup in Qatar, before going on to lift the trophy.