Iraq National Team will be Asia Represent in Inter-Confederation Play-off after sealed a dramatic 2–1 victory over United Arab Emirates National Team in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian Qualifiers Round 5 Second Leg at Basra International Stadium, Basra.
Iraq, backed by a roaring home crowd, welcomed talismanic striker Aymen Hussein back into the starting XI after he began the first leg on the bench. But early danger struck when defender Akam Hashim’s back pass came up short. UAE’s Bruno Conceicao pounced but dragged his effort wide, sparing Iraq an early disaster.
For much of the opening half-hour, neither side managed to take control. The first real warning came when goalkeeper Jalal Hassan—celebrating his 100th cap for Iraq—pushed away a threatening cross from Ruben Canedo.
Yahia Nader drove through midfield with purpose before threading a perfect pass to Caio Lucas, whose clinical first-touch finish gave UAE a crucial away goal and a 3–1 aggregate advantage.
Minutes later, the visitors nearly doubled their lead. Nicolas Gimenez unleashed a blistering effort from 20 yards, rattling the crossbar as the Iraqi defence froze.
Al Ammari delivered a teasing free-kick into the danger area. Mohanad Ali rose highest, and his header—deflected slightly off Nader—flew past Khalid Eisa to make it 1–1 and bring Basra to life.
The goal ignited a wave of momentum. Ali then had two golden chances to seal the comeback but seemed the decisive moment might not come.
As the match approached its incredible 90+17th minute, Iraq pushed forward desperately. A looping header from Mohanad Ali struck Nader’s arm. After a tense VAR review, Japanese referee Yusuke Araki pointed to the spot.
With nerves of steel, Amir Al Ammari stepped up and sent Eisa the wrong way, guiding the ball calmly into the net. The stadium erupted. Iraq had done the unthinkable.
Ended Iraq won 2-1 and clinched a 3–2 aggregate triumph and secure a coveted place in the Inter-confederation Playoffs for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With the victory, Iraq advance to the Inter-confederation Playoffs in March, where one final hurdle stands between them and a return to the FIFA World Cup stage after nearly four decades.
Credit Photo : Iraq FA
