Iraq Officially Qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 After Historic Win Over Bolivia

Iraq Makes History by Qualifying for FIFA World Cup 2026

On Wednesday at the BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, the Iraq national team, known as the "Lions of Mesopotamia," defeated Bolivia 2-1 in the World Cup playoff final, securing a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the second time after their first appearance in 1986. This victory ends a 40-year wait for Iraq to return to football's biggest stage.

Iraq started strong, opening the scoring in the 10th minute with a precise header by Ali Al-Hamadi. Bolivia equalized in the 38th minute through Moisés Banegas. In the second half, Ayman Hussein scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute, securing a historic win for Iraq.

With this victory, Iraq will join Group I in World Cup 2026 alongside France, Norway, and Senegal.