In true Hellenics, the Iraqi team soared through the skies of Athena in a clinical display of strength, creativity, control, determination, and sportsmanship as they walked over the competition in the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament.

The world finally tuned into the magic of ‘toba’, the beautiful game, as millions witnessed the true willingness of Iraqis to overcome odds in their relentless efforts to regain their place amongst the pitches of the planet. With no domestic league operating in Iraq, the majority of the players relied on sparse Arab competition and non competitive international friendlies for real game experience. And during times where games mattered, such as qualifying matches for the Olympiad itself or for the upcoming World Cup in Germany, the Iraqis didn’t have an opportunity to play at home. Instead, military equipment, and later poor shepherds occupied the haunted premises of the Shaab (People’s) Stadium. The team, regardless of where it played, however, was always under equipped and treated with little regard despite the immense security and logistical obstacles that they overcome.

The harsh reality facing the winning eleven didn’t include, however, a shortage of skill. In true Iraqi fashion, and under circumstances favorable to play, the green scoring machine performed smoothly and with strength. Players displayed excellent control of the ball, and knocked it around the park cleverly as if they were regulars to highly competitive football. With insightful coaching from the poker faced Adnan Hamad, the Iraqis topped their group and surprised millions of fans not aware of the footballing beast within.

No matter where Iraq places in these Olympiad, fans used to being marginalized as mediocre hopefuls were finally regarded for years of sticking with their team despite facing changes that at times could take away lives, let alone goals.

Great attention must be paid to this experience, and many lessons can be learned. These players, turned superstars, turned gods, are truly representative of the Iraqi people. They are true heroes during times where many claim to be supernatural.

To all Iraqi fans worldwide who have spent their days pouring over obscure websites for any bit of information, enjoy your time in the light. And, as you are well aware, prepare yourself for our majestic return to the greatest sporting event in two years time. After missing out on the last four editions, unwrap your flags and book your tickets to Germany.

Let Iraq’s play in the Olympics be a warning to those teams in the Gulf that have basking in the calm waters of Arab football. Japanese and Korean coaches have already been spotted wandering the Olympic village looking for advice on what to do with the resurgence of Iraqi football. The sweet surroundings of sub par soccer are slipping away.

Let Emad’s bicycle kick be a thorn in the sides of those that worked day and night to keep Iraq out of local and continental competition. To all those that were afraid to face the giant, your worst dreams have come true.

For everyone who has searched for the pulse of the Iraqi people, this magazine, and Iraqis worldwide, look into the eyes of the players and hear the chanting of the fans.

After years of being the victim of power games in Iraq, the games have been victimized by the power of the players.

Congratulations.