Iraq qualifies for FIFA World Cup with win over Bolivia

Iraq qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 with win over Bolivia — Iraq’s Kevin Yakob celebrates after Iraq’s 2–1 victory over Bolivia, securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Monterrey, Monterrey, Mexico, March 31, 2026. Photo: Reuters

MONTERREY, Mexico,— Iraq secured the final place at the World Cup with a 2-1 win over Bolivia in an inter-confederation playoff on Tuesday, ending a 40-year absence from the tournament.

Aymen Hussein scored the decisive goal in the second half to confirm Iraq as the 48th and last team to qualify for the competition, which will be held in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Ali Al Hamadi gave Iraq an early advantage in the 10th minute at Monterrey Stadium. Bolivia responded before halftime, leveling the match through Moises Paniagua.

Iraq will play in Group I at the World Cup scheduled from June 11 to July 19, alongside France, Norway and Senegal.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani praised the team’s achievement, describing qualification as a key moment for the country’s sports ambitions.

He said it fulfilled the dream of Iraqi supporters and strengthened the country’s presence on the global stage.

Iraq started strongly, creating pressure early in the match. Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a fingertip save to push Amir Al Ammari’s curling free kick onto the crossbar.

From the resulting corner, Al Hamadi rose above the defense and headed the ball into the net to open the scoring.

Bolivia gradually regained control and managed to equalize before the break. Ramiro Vaca played a forward ball that reached Paniagua, who turned and scored from close range.

Iraq restored their lead in the 53rd minute. Substitute Marko Farji delivered a cross into the area, and Hussein reacted quickly to guide the ball past the goalkeeper.

Mohanad Ali later had an opportunity to extend Iraq’s lead near the end of the match but missed his chance.

Bolivia pressed in the final minutes, earning several corners as they attempted to force extra time. Iraq held firm defensively and appeared the stronger side as the match concluded.

Head coach Graham Arnold praised his players after the game, saying they showed determination and commitment throughout the match. He said their effort and defensive work were key factors in securing the victory.

Arnold also acknowledged Bolivia’s performance, stating that they played well and created challenges, but Iraq’s defending made the difference.

He added that the result brought happiness to millions of people in Iraq and highlighted the significance of the achievement.

Iraq is the ninth team from Asia to qualify for the tournament. The team entered directly into the playoff final, while Bolivia reached the match after defeating Suriname in Monterrey last Thursday.

Iraq’s only previous appearance at a World Cup was in 1986 in Mexico, where the team lost all three group matches.

The win marks a return to the global stage after four decades and completes the lineup for the upcoming tournament.

(With files from Reuters)