The Iraqi national football team is facing serious difficulties ahead of a crucial match for qualification to the 2026 World Cup. Due to the escalation of the military conflict with Iran, the Iraqi Football Federation has appealed to FIFA for assistance in resolving organizational and logistical issues.
The main problem has been the closure of airspace in the region, which has left head coach Graham Arnold stranded in the United Arab Emirates and unable to join the team. The situation is exacerbated by a diplomatic crisis, as the closure of several foreign embassies has deprived players, coaches, and medical staff of the ability to quickly obtain visas for travel to Mexico, where the match will take place.
The key playoff match is scheduled for March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico. Iraq will compete against the winner of the Bolivia - Suriname matchup. One of the last spots for the World Cup, which will be held in 2026 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, is at stake.
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained the visa difficulties by the lack of a direct diplomatic representation in Baghdad. Currently, the Mexican embassy in the UAE is working closely with the Iraqi side, offering alternative ways to process documents through European countries. Iraqi football authorities have also confirmed that they are in constant contact with international organizations in search of solutions to transportation issues.
This match is of immense significance for Iraq. The team is on the brink of a historic achievement, as the last time the national team qualified for the World Cup was nearly forty years ago, in 1986.
