Al-Sudani pledges support for Iraq’s national team ahead of crucial World Cup qualifier

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met Wednesday with Adnan Darjal, president of the Iraqi Football Association, to discuss government support for the national team as it prepares for its upcoming World Cup qualifying match.

According to a statement from the prime minister’s media office, Al-Sudani reaffirmed the government’s “continued commitment to providing full support and preparing all necessary requirements for the work of the Iraqi Football Association, as well as for the national football team and its coaching staff.”

He expressed confidence in “the abilities and determination of the national team players and their coaching staff,” emphasizing that the government stands behind the team as it faces an important stage in the qualification campaign.

Iraq booked its playoff spot with a dramatic 2–1 win over the United Arab Emirates in Basra. The UAE took the lead in the 52nd minute through Caio Lucas before Mohanad Ali headed in the equalizer in the 66th. Iraq converted a penalty. Iraq’s Amir Al-Ammari converted a penalty the end of an extraordinary 17 minutes of stoppage time to seal the win and preserve their World Cup hopes.

If qualified, Iraq will play in the World Cup for only the second time and the first time in 40 years, having made its sole previous appearance at Mexico 1986, where it crashed out in the group stage after three narrow defeats to Paraguay, Belgium and the hosts. The 2026 edition will also be co-hosted by Mexico, alongside the U.S.A. and Canada.

Iraq has been drawn into a daunting potential 2026 World Cup group alongside France, Senegal and Norway, with its participation dependent on winning an intercontinental playoff next year.