War-torn Iraq has seen dark times. Since the advent of September 11, 2001 and the ensuing military conflict, there has been little brightness in the nation. One spark has been the national sport of soccer, commonly known as football in most places around the world if the exception of the United States. Iraq has had a commendable record in the sport, particularly in the eighties with qualification in the Mexico Cup and the Olympics on three different occasions. The team won several cup events as well, ranking highly in the sport. Under the leadership of Saddam Hussein’s son, the team experienced great oppression and were not allowed to participate in the Asian Games as a result of the Gulf War. Through all their trials and adversity, the team and the sport remains strong in a nation with little else to provide inspiration. The Iraqi team actually rose to prominence again in 2007 with victory at the Asian Cup. They continue to train, thrive, and grow giving their people a light at a time when so much sorrow has clouded their horizon. As they step into the future, their country will look to their national soccer team to bear hope’s torch.