BOSTON / FOXBOROUGH: Midfielder Zidane Iqbal has become the first player of Pakistani heritage to appear in a men’s FIFA World Cup match, after coming on as a substitute for Iraq in their Group I fixture against Norway on Monday.
Iqbal entered the match in the 59th minute during Iraq’s 4-1 defeat at Boston Stadium in Foxborough. Norway forward Erling Haaland scored twice as the European side secured a dominant win on his World Cup debut.
Iqbal, who previously played for Manchester United, has a Pakistani father and an Iraqi mother, and is eligible to represent both nations through his family background.
In comments to BBC Sport, Iqbal said he was unaware of the historical significance of his appearance until it was brought to his attention, adding that he informed his father after learning of the milestone.
He said his father, who was born in Pakistan, played a key role in his development as a professional footballer.
Iqbal also said he maintains a strong connection to both sides of his heritage, describing his Iraqi and Pakistani backgrounds as equally important in his identity.
The midfielder added that he expresses this connection during matches by featuring the Iraqi flag on one boot and the Pakistani flag on the other, stating that the gesture reflects respect for both parts of his family.
Iqbal, who represents Iraq internationally despite growing up in England, said he takes pride in his multicultural background and does not prioritize one national identity over another.
The appearance marks a notable milestone in World Cup history for Pakistan-linked representation in international football.