SOCCER: Iraq qualify for World Cup with win over Bolivia
Iraq secures a historic World Cup return after 40 years, defeating Bolivia 2-1 to claim the final spot in the tournament alongside France, Norway, and Senegal.
Mark Gleeson/Reuters
April 01, 2026
A person waves an Iraqi flag as Iraqis celebrate on the streets after Iraq defeated Bolivia 2-1 in the inter-confederation playoff to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1986, in Baghdad, Iraq, April 1, 2026.
Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters
Iraq grabbed the last available place at the World Cup by beating Bolivia 2-1 in their inter-confederation playoff on Tuesday, sealing their return to the finals after a 40-year absence.
Aymen Hussein steered home a second-half winner to see the Iraqis become the 48th and last team to qualify for the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the U.S.
Ali Al Hamadi handed Iraq a 10th-minute lead at the Monterrey Stadium but Bolivia were level at the break through Moises Paniagua.
Iraq will compete in Group I at the June 11 to July 19 World Cup along with France, Norway and Senegal.
-Mark Gleeson/Reuters
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