With a comeback in the last play, Iraq beat the United Arab Emirates 2-1 this Tuesday (18), and secured a place in the global playoff for the 2026 World Cup.
The duel, played in the city of Basra, Iraq, was valid for the “final” of the Asian playoff.
The first goal of the match came 7 minutes into the second half from Brazilian Caio Lucas for the United Arab Emirates. With a header, Mohanad Ali left everything equal for the Iraqis in the 21st minute.
In stoppage time the referee signaled a penalty for the home team. Amir Al-Ammari filled the nets, sending the more than 50 thousand fans present into a frenzy.
Now, the Iraqis join Bolivia, Democratic Republic of Congo, New Caledonia and two other Concacaf teams in the playoff that gives two places to the World Cup.
The draw to define the confrontation in this phase takes place this Thursday (20). The games will be held in March 2026.
Iraq is looking for its second World Cup in history. The Asian team was present at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
