Monterrey

Iraq clinched the final spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff in Monterrey, marking their return to football’s biggest stage after four decades.

Goals from Ali Almahadi and Aymen Hussein sealed the win for Iraq, while Moises Paniagua had briefly equalised for Bolivia. The result ends Iraq’s long wait since their last appearance at the 1986 FIFA World Cup.

Tough road to qualification

The journey to qualification was far from smooth. The ongoing regional conflict disrupted travel plans, leaving Iraqi players stranded due to airspace closures. Visa hurdles also complicated their arrival in Mexico, forcing the squad to undertake a long, multi-stop journey before reaching Monterrey.

Despite these setbacks, coach Graham Arnold praised his team’s resilience and mental strength, saying the players “put their body on the line” to achieve qualification.

A challenging group awaits

Iraq have been drawn into a tough Group I alongside heavyweights:

France

Norway

Senegal

They will kick off their campaign against Norway, followed by matches against France and Senegal.

The group features some of the world’s top stars, including Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, presenting a formidable challenge for the returning side.

A moment of pride

For Iraq, qualification is more than just a sporting achievement—it’s a moment of national pride amid difficult circumstances. The team’s success has resonated with millions back home, offering a rare moment of unity and celebration.

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As they prepare for the 2026 tournament, Iraq will look to defy expectations and make a mark on the global stage once again.