Iraq Returns to World Cup After 40-Year Absence

Iraq has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking its return to the tournament for the first time since 1986. This achievement came after a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in an inter-confederation playoff held on Tuesday.

Ali Al Hamadi opened the scoring for Iraq in the 10th minute, but Bolivia equalized before halftime through Mois Paniagua in the 53rd minute. Aymen Hussein then scored the winning goal, ensuring Iraq's qualification alongside France, Norway, and Senegal in their group.

Iraq's coach, Graham Arnold, praised the team's effort, highlighting their resilience and determination under pressure, which he described as a "real Iraqi mental" performance.