AFC confirms dates for Iraq–UAE World Cup playoff matches

BAGHDAD — The Asian Football Confederation on Tuesday announced the official dates for Iraq’s playoff matches against the United Arab Emirates in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to an AFC statement reported by the Iraqi News Agency, the first leg will take place on November 13 at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi at 8 p.m., while the return match will be held on November 18 at Basra International Stadium at 7 p.m.

The fixtures follow Iraq’s 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia on Oct. 14 in Jeddah, which ended hopes of direct qualification and sent the team to the playoff stage.

After the match, Iraq Football Association President Adnan Darjal apologized to supporters, saying, “We must apologize to our loyal fans who supported us in the stadium and through television screens. The opportunity is still there, and we must fight for it fiercely.”

Head coach Graham Arnold said, “We are still in the competition, and we have two important matches in November. We will fight until the end.”

Darjal later met with the players and urged them to “continue training well” and “be in full physical and mental readiness” for the upcoming clashes, adding that playing the second leg in Basra gives Iraq an advantage.