FIFA World Cup
The draw, conducted at FIFA headquarters in Zürich, placed Iraq directly into the final stage of the inter-confederation playoff as one of the two seeded teams, bypassing the bracket semi-finals and standing just one match away from a historic return to football’s biggest stage.
“We have to stay positive and make sure we’re fully prepared. The match is in Mexico, a venue we haven’t played at before, so off-field preparation will be crucial,” said head coach Arnold, who led his native Australia to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
“I have to say, you (Iraq supporters) were our 12th man for the United Arab Emirates game in Basra, your support for the players and everyone involved was incredible. We need that energy to continue to foster a positive mindset in the players, and that’s exactly what’s required to win.”
“I have to say, you (Iraq supporters) were our 12th man for the United Arab Emirates game in Basra, your support for the players and everyone involved was incredible. We need that energy to continue to foster a positive mindset in the players, and that’s exactly what’s required to win.”
Iraq booked their playoff ticket after a dramatic two-legged clash against the United Arab Emirates. After drawing the first leg away, Iraq returned to Basra for a decisive second match that swung wildly in momentum.
The UAE struck first through Caio Lucas, putting Iraq on the brink of elimination, before Mohanad Ali pulled the hosts level and reignited the stadium. Deep into stoppage time –17 minutes beyond regulation – Iraq were awarded a penalty, which Amir Al Ammari converted under immense pressure, sealing a 2-1 win on the night and a 3-2 victory on aggregate.
The UAE struck first through Caio Lucas, putting Iraq on the brink of elimination, before Mohanad Ali pulled the hosts level and reignited the stadium. Deep into stoppage time –17 minutes beyond regulation – Iraq were awarded a penalty, which Amir Al Ammari converted under immense pressure, sealing a 2-1 win on the night and a 3-2 victory on aggregate.
#AsianQualifiers - Road To 26 Playoffs | Iraq 2-1 UAE
That triumph sent former AFC Asian Cup™ champions Iraq into the FIFA Playoff Tournament, a six-team mini-tournament hosted in Mexico. With their seeding secured through earlier qualification results, Iraq avoided the initial knockout fixture and now await the outcome of the Bolivia–Suriname semi-final. The final, to be held in either Monterrey or Guadalajara, is a one-match showdown.
The Lions of Mesopotamia are seeking a return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since making their debut in the 1986 edition.
Photo: AFP
The Lions of Mesopotamia are seeking a return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since making their debut in the 1986 edition.
Photo: AFP
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