‘We are fighters’: Iraq aim to shock rivals at 2026 World Cup
Summary
Iraq qualified for the 2026 World Cup for the first time since 1986 after a challenging qualifying campaign and a tough journey to Mexico. The team beat Bolivia 2-1 in the playoff final, overcoming travel difficulties and political unrest in their region.Key Facts
- Iraq played 21 matches over more than two years to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- Traveling to Mexico was difficult due to Middle East tensions and delayed flights.
- Iraq won the playoff final against Bolivia 2-1 in Monterrey, Mexico.
- Ali Al-Hamadi scored the first goal in the playoff final; he grew up in England but maintains strong ties to Iraq.
- Iraq’s national team has faced decades of conflict and political problems, affecting its football progress.
- The team last played in a World Cup in 1986 and won the Asian Cup in 2007.
- Iraq’s coach is Australian Graham Arnold.
- Iraq will prepare in Spain and then play in a tough World Cup group with France, Norway, and Senegal.
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