Author: Helen Exley
Brand: Exley
The story of Iraq's football by Helen Exley offers a compelling glimpse into the resilience of Iraqi sports amid political turmoil and oppression.
Covering the fall of Iraq in 2003 and the end of Uday Hussein’s brutal reign, the book highlights how, despite decades of arrests, torture, and violence inflicted on athletes, officials, and journalists, the Iraqi national football team has continued to excel, ranking among the world's top 40.
Central to this narrative is Ammo Baba, a legendary figure often likened to the Arab world's Pele or Stanley Matthews, whose remarkable career as player and coach spans over 50 years.
Through the eyes of Simon Freeman, the story explores the triumphs and tragedies faced by Iraqi footballers, officials, and supporters under the shadow of totalitarianism.
It also examines the team’s journey around the 2004 Olympics and their prospects leading up to Asian and World Cup tournaments.
This book reflects on the uncertain future of Iraq’s football in a post-Saddam era, where tanks once occupied the national stadium, capturing the spirit of hope, perseverance, and the enduring love of the game in a nation seeking peace and identity through sport.