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League: FIFA World CupSport: SoccerCountry: GlobalCategory: Scores & Results

Iraq qualifies for World Cup, faces tough group in 2026

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 7:29 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Iraq qualifies for World Cup, faces tough group in 2026
Summary

Iraq's soccer team has secured a place in the 2026 World Cup, marking their return after a 40-year absence. They qualified with a victory over Bolivia in Mexico, a site significant to their history since it hosted their first World Cup appearance in 1986. The team, currently ranked 57th in the world, will face Norway, France, and Senegal in what has been described as a challenging group. Coach Graham Arnold has previously led Australia to a successful cup performance, raising hopes for improved outcomes in this tournament.

Source Links
Yahoo SportsBBC Sport
Status Watch
  • •Iraq secured their World Cup spot by defeating Bolivia.
  • •The team ranks 57th globally, featuring players with European experience.
  • •Their group includes formidable opponents like Norway and France.
  • •Graham Arnold has been instrumental in Iraq's qualification journey.
  • •Iraq last played a World Cup qualifier in 1986.
Latest Updates
  • 7:29 AMYahoo Sports — Wars, sanctions and punishments: Iraq's 40-year World Cup wait
  • 7:29 AMBBC Sport — Wars, sanctions and punishments: Iraq's 40-year World Cup wait
What they're saying
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Iraq return to the World Cup with ambitions of delivering stronger performances and results than first time round in 1986.

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Iraq return to the World Cup with ambitions of delivering stronger performances and results than first time round in 1986.

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Manchester UnitedFIFA World CupSoccer

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