MONTERREY, Mexico — Iraq has secured its place as the 48th and final team in the 2026 World Cup, triumphing over Bolivia with a 2-1 victory in an intercontinental playoff on Tuesday. This win marked the end of a 40-year wait, despite facing last-minute logistical challenges.
Ali Almahadi put Iraq ahead in the 18th minute, only for Moises Paniagua to equalize for Bolivia in the 38th. However, Aymen Hussein delivered the decisive goal for Iraq in the 53rd minute. Iraq will compete in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Senegal.
This marks Iraq’s return to the World Cup for the first time since the tournament in Mexico in 1986, under the guidance of Australian coach Graham Arnold.
The Iraqi team’s campaign begins on Tuesday, June 16, against Norway in Foxborough, followed by matches against France on June 22 in Philadelphia and Senegal on June 26 in Toronto.
Bolivia, which earned its playoff spot with a victory over Suriname, was hoping to qualify for its second-ever World Cup appearance.