Escalating tensions following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran could not extinguish the Iraq national football team's determination to reach the World Cup finals.
Reuters reported on the 14th (local time), citing Iraqi media, that the Iraq Football Association has decided to participate in the playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.
Initially, Iraq's playoff participation appeared uncertain. The deteriorating Middle East situation made travel to Mexico, where the playoff matches are held, extremely difficult.
However, the team ultimately decided to take the risk for a chance at the World Cup finals. The Iraqi national team plans to depart next week and travel by charter flight to Monterrey, Mexico, the site of the decisive match. Players competing in Europe will join the squad separately.
Adnan Dirjal, president of the Iraq Football Association, said, "We sent a letter to FIFA explaining the regional situation and the difficulties facing the Iraqi national team. FIFA was cooperative and helped us overcome travel obstacles."
Iraq will face the winner of the Bolivia vs. Suriname match at BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico, on April 1.
A victory would send Iraq to the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years since the 1986 Mexico tournament.