Iraq is scheduled to play a play-off match against the winner of the Bolivia - Suriname tie in Monterrey, Mexico, on 31/3. This match is for one of the two final qualification spots for the World Cup 2026, co-hosted by USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Iraq forward Aymen Hussein (number 18) scores the opening goal from a penalty in their 2-0 victory over Indonesia in the final match of Group F, second round of World Cup 2026 qualifiers - Asian region. Photo: IFA

The Iraq Football Association (IFA) announced on Instagram on 5/3 that head coach Graham Arnold is currently unable to leave UAE due to numerous airspace closures.

Additionally, several embassies remain temporarily closed, preventing many overseas-based players, coaching staff, and medical personnel from completing their visa applications for entry into Mexico.

The IFA maintains regular contact with FIFA to discuss solutions ensuring the Iraq national team can participate in the match. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is also fully informed of the situation.

Should Iraq fail to advance past the play-off round, another opportunity could arise if Iran withdraws from the World Cup 2026 due to tensions with USA and Israel. Mehdi Taj, President of the Iran Football Federation, admitted the current situation makes it difficult for their national team to approach the World Cup optimistically.

If Iran withdraws, a scenario currently speculative, Iraq or UAE could be chosen as replacements, given their rankings as the 9th and 10th Asian teams in the qualifiers. However, FIFA's legal regulations for such cases are vague, likely granting significant decision-making power to President Gianni Infantino.

Therefore, the most certain path for Iraq to participate in the World Cup 2026 remains winning the play-off match later this month.

Coach Arnold, who led Australia in the World Cup 2022, believes preparation will be crucial. "I cannot predict who will win between Bolivia and Suriname. The most important thing is that we prepare well," he stated on FIFA.com. "We need to ensure our preparation is on track and the players are in the best physical condition."

Iraq has only participated in the World Cup once, in 1986, where they lost all three group stage matches.

Hong Duy (via ESPN)