Iraq national football team have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 40-year absence with a 2–1 victory over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff at Estadio BBVA Bancomer.
The result confirms Iraq as the 48th and final team to qualify and marks their first appearance at the World Cup finals since 1986.
Despite preparations being disrupted by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Iraq delivered a composed and determined performance.
They took the lead early in the ninth minute when Ali Al-Hamadi headed in a corner from Amir Al-Ammari, setting the tone for a strong start.
Bolivia responded before halftime, with Moises Paniagua scoring the equalizer after a well-worked move.
The momentum briefly shifted in Bolivia’s favor, but Iraq regained control early in the second half.
Substitute Marko Lawk-Farji made an immediate impact, assisting captain Aymen Hussein, who finished first-time to score the winning goal.
The victory is particularly significant given Iraq’s difficult journey to the match, with players completing a demanding three-day trip from Baghdad.
Under Australian coach Graham Arnold, the team showed resilience and tactical discipline throughout the match.
Iraq now advance to the group stage, where they will face France, Senegal, and Norway, marking a historic return to football’s biggest stage after four decades.
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