Iraq secured its first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1986 after defeating Bolivia 2-1 in a dramatic intercontinental playoff final on Wednesday morning.
Iraq booked its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoff final.
Ali Al Hamadi opened the scoring early before Moises Paniagua equalized for the South Americans. However, Aymen Hussein’s 53rd-minute strike proved decisive, capping a grueling 28-month qualification campaign.
The historic victory marks the Lions of Mesopotamia’s first return to football’s biggest stage in forty years.
The win triggered massive celebrations as Iraq joined the final field of 48 teams.
They are now set to compete in Group I, where they will face formidable opponents including France, Norway, and Senegal.
After 21 matches of intense qualification, the Iraqi squad has finally realized their dream. The Middle Eastern nation now prepares for a high-stakes summer tournament across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.