Iraq Coach Demands Postponement of World Cup Play-off Amid Iran Tensions

Baghdad. Iraq's head coach, Graham Arnold, has demanded the postponement of the decisive World Cup play-off match scheduled for this month due to escalating tensions and military conflict with Iran. Iraq is scheduled to compete against either Bolivia or Suriname in Monterrey, Mexico, on March 31.

The winner of this intercontinental play-off will secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, starting June 11. However, Iraq has expressed concern that due to the ongoing conflict in neighboring Iran, flights in the Middle East have been halted, making it impossible for Iraq to transport its players and staff to Mexico.

Iraq closed its airspace on February 28 after the United States and Israel initiated attacks on Iran. Arnold stated that it would be a major disadvantage for Iraq, which is aiming to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1986, to take the field without its players who are currently in the country. 

The Australian Arnold, appointed as Iraq's coach in May 2025, said, 'This is the biggest game for the country in 40 years, so we need the best team. If we form the team only with players who are abroad, our chances of qualifying become weak.'

He added that the Iraqi people are very passionate about football and that he took on this responsibility to change the history of not reaching the World Cup for 40 years. 'We are exploring other options to get the team to Mexico while airports remain closed,' Arnold added.