The pressure on Hussein is not based only on his scoring record. Former Iraq captain Hussein Saeed reportedly described his influence as “clear on the team and all players”, underlining how much responsibility rests on the forward’s ability to lead the line.
That influence could be decisive in matches where Iraq must survive long periods without the ball. Hussein’s hold-up play and aerial threat can offer an outlet, while his movement gives midfielders a clear target when the team wins possession.
The report describes a difficult personal journey. Hussein was raised in a farming family, lost his father to violence and later learned that his older brother had been kidnapped. He reportedly considered leaving football to support his family before his mother urged him to continue.
That choice ultimately changed his life. Recalling his early move to Dohuk, Hussein said: “Honestly, I was ready to play for free.” The quote reflects how distant his current status once seemed, before domestic success and international goals made him one of Iraq’s most important players.
The reported group featuring France, Senegal and Norway would present a formidable challenge. For Iraq, the next storyline is clear: whether Hussein’s experience, resilience and finishing can turn national hope into World Cup progress.