Iraq prepares for World Cup playoff opener against Indonesia

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s national football team will take on Indonesia on Saturday at 10:30 p.m. in its first match of the Asian playoff qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Iraq is aiming for three points in Group B, which also includes Saudi Arabia. Indonesia, having lost its opening match 3-2 to Saudi Arabia, will seek a win to stay in contention.

The top team from each group qualifies directly for the World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The runner-up will face the second-place team from Group A in a two-legged playoff in November, with the winner advancing to an inter-confederation playoff in March 2026 for a final World Cup berth.

Supporters across the country are hoping Iraq can secure a second-ever World Cup appearance.