Iraq's National Team Qualifies for World Cup After 40 Years

Graham Arnold, the head coach of Iraq's national football team, expressed pride in the team's achievement of qualifying for the World Cup after a 40-year absence. Iraq secured their spot by defeating Bolivia 2-1 in the inter-confederation playoff held at Monterrey Stadium.

Aymen Hussein scored the decisive goal in the second half, while Ali Al Hamadi had given Iraq an early lead in the 10th minute. Despite the challenges posed by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Arnold emphasized the team's determination and focus on their objectives.

He also mentioned the ban on social media for the team, stating it was to help them concentrate on their performance. Arnold previously guided Australia to the Round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is set to become the second Australian coach to lead two different teams in World Cup finals.