Iraq has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years. The team won the decisive playoff game against Bolivia in the World Cup stadium in Monterrey in Mexico 2-1 (1-1).
With the success of the Iraqis, the field of participants in the largest World Cup in history in the USA, Canada and Mexico is complete. All 48 nations are now determined. The goals for Iraq were scored by Ali Al-Hamadi (10th) and Aymen Hussein (53rd), while Moises Paniagua scored for Bolivia (38th). In a long added time, the Iraqis had to survive a final offensive from the Bolivians, and when the final whistle blew, Australian coach Graham Arnold’s team erupted in great celebration.
The Iraqi team had to prepare under difficult conditions because of the Iran war. Because Iraqi airspace has been closed for weeks, arrival was only possible via lengthy detours. Iraq last took part in a World Cup in 1986.
Iraq will face Norway, France and Senegal at the World Cup
At the World Cup next summer, the Iraqis will face Norway in Group I in Boston, followed by World Cup co-favorites France in Philadelphia. Finally, Iraq plays in Canada in Toronto against Senegal.
Meanwhile, the waiting period continues for Bolivia. The South Americans last took part in a World Cup in 1994 in the USA. At that time, Bolivia played its opening game against the then defending champions from Germany and lost 0-1. Jürgen Klinsmann scored the only goal.
