Al-Hamadi creates history as first Iraqi to play in Premier League

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Ipswich Town forward Ali Al-Hamadi has become the first Iraqi player to feature in the Premier League after coming on against Liverpool on Saturday.

Al-Hamadi replaced 21-year-old English forward Liam Delap in the 74th minute after the home side were already down 2-0.

After a goalless first half, Diogo Jota broke the deadlock on the hour mark off a Mohamed Salah assist. The Egyptian then converted the ball for a second five minutes later, sealing the Reds’ win at the Portman Road.

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At the start of the century, Al-Hamadi’s family fled Iraq due to war when he was only one. On getting to England, the 22-year-old’s family lived in Liverpool, where he grew up.

His 20+ minutes cameo on the pitch ensures he makes history as the first-ever Iraqi footballer to appear in the competition.

Following Al-Hamadi’s unprecedented feat, the number of nations represented in the 32 years of the Premier League is now 124.

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