Ali Rehema

Since playing every minute of Iraq's title-winning campaign at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, Ali Rehema has established his status as one of the team's defensive stalwarts. He held on to his regular place during Iraq's failed 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa qualifying bid, starting seven of the team's eight games. After playing for Al Talaba, Al Quwa Al Jawiya and Arbil FC, Rehema earned his first international move when he was signed by Libyan giants Al-Ahly in 2007. After spending a season with the Tripoli-based club, he was attracted to Qatari outfits Al Wakra, where he continues to play. Aside from shoring up the Iraqi defence, Rehema could also play the role of a defensive midfielder in their 4-5-1 formation, protecting the back four while launching counter-attacks from deep. Rehema announced his retirement from international football, citing his reason to allow younger players the opportunity to represent the Iraqi national team.

Club

Iraqi Premier League: 2004–05 (with Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya), 2006–07 (with Erbil SC), 2017–18 (with Al-Zawraa) Iraq FA Cup: 2003 (with Talaba SC) Iraqi Super Cup: 2002 (with Talaba SC), 2017 (with Al-Zawraa) Iraq

2005 West Asian Games Gold medallist 2006 Asian Games Silver medallist 2007 Asian Cup: winner 21st Arabian Gulf Cup: runner-up Individual

Soccer Iraq Team of the Decade: 2010–2019