Iraq secured a historic return to the FIFA World Cup after 40 years with a tense 2-1 victory over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff held in Mexico.
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Under head coach Graham Arnold, Iraq overcame challenging preparations disrupted by regional conflict to seal qualification. Goals from Ali Al-Hamadi and Aymen Hussein ensured their place in the tournament.
Al-Hamadi opened the scoring early, while Bolivia responded through Moises Paniagua before Hussein restored Iraq’s lead in the second half. Despite late pressure, Iraq’s defense held firm to confirm their spot in the finals — their first appearance since 1986.
Arnold praised his team’s resilience, urging them to “shock the world” at the tournament, where Iraq will face France, Senegal, and Norway in the group stage.
In a separate playoff, Turkiye ended a 24-year absence from the World Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Kosovo.
Kerem Akturkoglu scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute, securing Turkiye’s return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since their semi-final run in 2002.
Head coach Vincenzo Montella hailed the achievement as a dream fulfilled, while celebrations erupted across the country following qualification.
Turkiye have been drawn in a competitive group alongside Australia, Paraguay, and co-hosts the United States.
The upcoming World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking an expanded global tournament featuring 48 teams.
