Graham Arnold Ahead of France Clash: "We Always Go for the Win"

Iraq's Australian coach, Graham Arnold, declared that a conservative approach against football powerhouse France is not in his team's plans, ahead of their match tonight. The Iraqis, making only their second appearance at a World Cup finals, began their Group I campaign with a heavy 1-4 loss to Norway.

"I've always been a coach who goes into a game expecting to win, not trying to avoid defeat," stated the Australian, who also led the Iraqis through the qualifiers. "If that's your mentality – yes, there will be games where it doesn't happen. But there will be days when it does. And if you have that mindset and try to instill that belief in your players, that we go out there confident and ready to win, then that puts the players in a good mental state."

France's new record goal-scorer, Kylian Mbappé, much like Erling Haaland, also netted two goals as his team defeated Senegal 3-1. So, will Iraq implement special measures against the "Les Bleus" superstar?

"I asked if we could play with three goalkeepers, but they said 'no'," Arnold quipped. "Look, they have some incredible players, and it's an honor to play against them, to meet them on the pitch. But I guarantee you, we will be focused on ourselves."

"And when I say that, I mean our own performance. We cannot control France's performance, but we can control ours. And I assure you, the players are fully prepared to go out there and show the world what they are capable of."

The coach confirmed that winger Ali Jasim is in good condition after being forced off in the 73rd minute against Norway due to a neck injury.

Aymen Hussein, who scored Iraq's goal against Norway, is gearing up for another challenge – this time against France.

"We will try to enjoy the game against a very strong team. For me personally, I know what French defenders are like – some of the best in the world. But our goal is clear – we are looking for a result that will take us to the second round," Hussein stated. In fact, besides scoring for his country, he also scored an own goal in added time, making the final score 1-4.