Iraq Qualifies for 2026 FIFA World Cup After 40-Year Absence

Iraq has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the global playoff final on Wednesday, marking their return to the tournament after 40 years away.

  • Match Highlights:

    • Ali Al-Hamadi opened the scoring for Iraq in the 10th minute.

    • Bolivia equalized through Moses Panayjua in the 38th minute.

    • Captain Ayman Hussein sealed the win with a close-range strike in the 53rd minute.

Iraq joins Group G alongside France, Senegal, and Norway. A massive achievement for the Lions of Mesopotamia—congratulations! ??

(News based on your update; historic moment amid regional excitement.)