Iraq qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 with 2-1 win over Bolivia

Iraq Qualifies for FIFA World Cup After 30-Year Wait

Iraq has secured a spot at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, ending a 30-year wait for an appearance in the tournament. The country’s national team defeated Bolivia 2-1 in the second round of the intercontinental playoffs held in Mexico.

The match took place at the Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe on Tuesday and saw Iraq emerge victorious. Ali Al-Hamadi scored the opening goal in the 10th minute, giving his team an early lead. However, Bolivia’s Moises Paniagua equalized 28 minutes later, narrowing the deficit.

The match remained deadlocked until Aymen Hussein broke the deadlock shortly after halftime. He scored the winning goal from close range, slotting in Marko Farji’s cross in the 53rd minute. The victory marked Iraq’s first appearance at the FIFA World Cup since 1986 and earned them a spot among the 48 teams competing in the tournament.

Iraq joins other participating nations as they prepare for the upcoming event.

Source: Al Jazeera