Friday match looms
Iraq set for World Cup qualifier against South Korea
BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Football Association said all preparations are in place ahead of Iraq’s upcoming World Cup qualifying match against South Korea, following a meeting of the organizing committee to finalize logistical and administrative arrangements.
Iraq will face South Korea on Thursday, June 5, at Basra International Stadium in a key match for both teams in the third round of Asian qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement, the national soccer association said the meeting covered media, organizational, and logistical issues to ensure smooth execution of the match.
Ali Jabbar, first deputy president of the Iraqi Football Association, emphasized the importance of the match and the need for collective effort to ensure its success. “The conditions for success are present,” he said.
Iraq currently sits third in Group B of the Asian Football Confederation qualifiers, four points behind South Korea and one point behind Jordan, with two matches remaining.
IFA member Ghalib Al-Zamili called for strict application of FIFA regulations and stressed the importance of coordination across all committees. “We now have the ability to host national teams and competitions,” he said, adding that responsibility is shared “to ensure the match appears in the best form.”
