Iraq’s aspirations to qualify for their first World Cup since 1986 are at a critical juncture, as manager Graham Arnold has formally requested Fifa to delay their vital intercontinental playoff match due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, reports BritPanorama.
The playoff, set for March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico, will see Iraq face either Bolivia or Suriname. Arnold’s plea highlights the severe logistical challenges posed by the unrest in Iraq, which have created uncertainty surrounding the match.
The 62-year-old Australian, who took the reins of the Iraqi team in May 2024, expressed deep concern for fielding a competitive squad amidst the current crisis. “Please help us with this game because right now we are struggling to get our players out of the country of Iraq,” he stated, emphasizing that an undermanned team would not suffice for what he described as the nation’s “biggest game in 40 years.”
Travel restrictions have compounded the issue. With Iraqi airspace closed since February 28 due to Iranian airstrikes and expected to remain so until April 1, approximately half of the national team is currently stranded in Baghdad, unable to exit the country. Arnold himself is in Dubai, hindered from coordinating team preparations effectively.
Fifa’s suggested solution—an arduous overland journey from Baghdad to Istanbul—was met with immediate disapproval from Arnold, given the dangers associated with the proposed route. “It wouldn’t be our best team, and we need our best team for the country’s biggest game in 40 years,” he remarked.
In light of the situation, Arnold has put forth an alternative plan that he believes would allow sufficient time for both team preparation and Fifa to evaluate Iran’s involvement in the tournament. Should Iran withdraw, Iraq, as the highest-ranked Asian team, would receive an automatic qualification spot.
Complications extend to the issue of travel documentation as well, with several players and staff yet to secure necessary visas for Mexico or the United States, where an initial training camp was supposed to be held before its cancellation. Iraqi FA president Adnan Dirjal is reportedly addressing these challenges diligently.
This unfolding situation not only affects Iraq’s football ambitions but also underscores the harsh realities athletes face amid geopolitical strife. As the playoff date approaches, uncertainty looms over whether the team will be able to compete on the world stage once again.
