Iraq FA chief apologizes after Saudi draw ends direct World Cup hopes

BAGHDAD — Iraq Football Association President Adnan Darjal apologized to fans Wednesday after the national team’s 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia ended its chances for direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“We must apologize to our loyal fans who supported us in the stadium and through television screens,” Darjal said in a Facebook post following the match. “The opportunity is still there, and we must fight for it fiercely.”

With the draw, Iraq dropped crucial points needed to secure automatic qualification and will now enter the playoff round. Darjal met with the players after the match and stressed the importance of preparing seriously for the upcoming home-and-away playoff against the United Arab Emirates.

The first leg is scheduled for Nov. 13 in Abu Dhabi, with the return match to be played on Nov. 18 in Basra.

“We urge the players to continue training well and to take care of themselves to avoid injury,” Darjal said. “We want them to be in full physical and mental readiness next month.”

He added that playing the second leg at home gives Iraq an edge, but emphasized the need to use the remaining time to prepare with discipline and focus.