British newspaper Sunsport reports that road travel is being considered an emergency measure. Iraq's airspace is currently closed due to military tensions involving Iran and the US, effectively stranding the national team in Baghdad and preventing international flights.
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Coach Graham Arnold (in black) applauds before the match between Iraq and UAE in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers at Basra Stadium, Iraq on 18/11/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Graham Arnold (in black) applauds before the match between Iraq and UAE in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers at Basra Stadium, Iraq on 18/11/2025. Photo: Reuters
Last week, coach Graham Arnold urged FIFA to postpone Iraq's final play-off match against the winner of the Bolivia versus Suriname game, citing the team's inability to travel.
However, FIFA has not confirmed any postponement, compelling the Iraq Football Federation to seek alternative solutions.
One option under discussion involves assembling a squad from players based outside Iraq. However, this plan faces difficulties as many key players and coaching staff are still in the country and need a safe way to depart.
With time running out, a road trip from Baghdad to Jordan is being considered. This approximately 12-hour bus journey would enable the team to cross into Jordan and then catch an international flight to Mexico, the host nation for the intercontinental play-off.
However, this journey is not considered entirely safe due to ongoing security risks in the region.
Sources indicate that FIFA has even suggested Iraq depart Baghdad around 20/3 to ensure sufficient travel time and complete flight procedures from Jordan to Mexico.
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The Iraq national team before the match against UAE. Photo: Reuters |
The Iraq national team before the match against UAE. Photo: Reuters
The situation is further complicated by Iran's Sports Minister announcing the country's withdrawal from the World Cup 2026 due to ongoing conflict. This has led to speculation that Iraq might propose to replace Iran if FIFA permits adjustments to the participant list.
In one discussed scenario, Iraq could directly enter the tournament in Iran's place, while UAE, who lost 2-3 to Iraq in a previous round, would be sent to Mexico to play the play-off as a replacement.
The intercontinental play-off semi-final between Bolivia and Suriname is scheduled for 26/3. The winner will then face Iraq on 31/3 for the final World Cup 2026 spot.
For Iraq, the greatest challenge might not be their opponent on the field, but rather finding a way to reach the match venue.
By Hong Duy
