ISTANBUL

Iraq booked its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoff final on Wednesday morning.

The Lions of Mesopotamia got off to a fast start as Ali Al Hamadi opened the scoring in the 10th minute. Bolivia fought back before halftime, with Moises Paniagua equalizing in the 38th minute.

After the break, Iraq took control again, and Aymen Hussein’s 53rd-minute strike proved decisive, securing a historic win.

The win capped a 28-month, 21-match qualification campaign, marking Iraq’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

At the final whistle, celebrations erupted as Iraq secured their spot in Group I, set to face France, Norway, and Senegal in the 2026 World Cup.