Sudani meets national team coach ahead of World Cup playoff

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met Saturday with Iraqi Football Association President Adnan Darjal and national team head coach Graham Arnold to review preparations for the upcoming intercontinental playoff in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Sudani was briefed on the team’s readiness for the decisive playoff match scheduled for next month in Mexico.

The prime minister affirmed the government’s continued backing of the national squad, stressing the importance of securing “a result befitting Iraq’s stature” and reflecting “an honorable image of Iraqi sports before the world.”

Sudani emphasized that football “is no longer merely a game, but an occasion to build bridges of friendship and cooperation among peoples.”

He directed the allocation of a special aircraft to transport the team’s delegation to Mexico and instructed relevant authorities to provide all necessary facilitation.

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. Amir al-Ammari converted a penalty at the end of 17 minutes of stoppage time to seal the win.

Under the draw, Iraq was placed in the second playoff path and will face the winner of Bolivia vs. Suriname in March.

If qualified, Iraq would play in the World Cup for only the second time and the first in 40 years, having made its sole previous appearance at Mexico 1986. The 2026 edition will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Iraq has been drawn into a potential group alongside France, Senegal and Norway.