Iraq secured its spot in the intercontinental playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates, keeping its decades-long dream of returning to the global tournament alive.
The decisive goal came deep into stoppage time, at the 90+17 minute mark, when Amir Al Ammari successfully converted a penalty kick. This crucial moment in Basra allowed Iraq to advance from the final Asian qualification round.
The win followed a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the qualifier five days earlier in Abu Dhabi. Iraq is now the sole Asian representative in the upcoming intercontinental playoff.
The United Arab Emirates initially took the lead in the second leg through Caio Lucas in the 52nd minute. Iraq responded shortly after, with Meme, a substitute introduced in the 56th minute, scoring the equalizer ten minutes later.
Both nations were vying to make a return to the World Cup finals after significant absences. Iraq last participated in the tournament in 1986, while the United Arab Emirates made their single appearance in 1990.
The intercontinental playoff will also feature teams from DR Congo, Bolivia, and New Caledonia. Two additional spots will be filled by the best second-placed teams from the third phase of CONCACAF qualification.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19 and will be the first edition to feature 48 national teams.