Summary
Iraq's football coach Graham Arnold has asked FIFA to delay their World Cup qualifier match due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel in Iran. The conflict has caused logistical problems for the Iraqi team, such as closed airspace and difficulties in gathering players. Arnold suggested postponing the final playoff to ensure Iraq's best chance of qualifying for the World Cup.
Key Facts
- Iraq's football team needs to play a World Cup qualifying match against Suriname or Bolivia on March 31 in Mexico.
- Iraq's airspace is closed until April 1 due to the conflict, making it hard for the team to gather.
- Coach Graham Arnold is stuck in the United Arab Emirates because of the conflict.
- Players haven't received visas for the playoff in Mexico, as foreign embassies are closed.
- A training camp in Houston, U.S., was postponed due to travel difficulties.
- Arnold proposed delaying the playoff to allow better preparations and suggested Suriname and Bolivia play their match earlier.
- The World Cup will take place in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
- Iran's participation in the World Cup is uncertain because of the conflict, impacting logistics and participation.
