Travel chaos puts Iraq's participation in World Cup playoffs in doubt

Iraq's national squad faces significant logistical hurdles ahead of their decisive World Cup playoff match in Monterrey scheduled for March 31. While they prepare to play the victor of the Bolivia and Suriname clash, severe geopolitical tensions threaten their travel plans. Consequently, Iraqi airspace remains closed following recent military exchanges involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. This disruption has stranded head coach Graham Arnold in the United Arab Emirates, while widespread embassy closures prevent key players and technical staff from obtaining Mexican visas.

Addressing these complications, team officials confirmed that FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation are fully apprising themselves of the crisis. Although Iraq has only reached the global tournament once, in 1986, they are currently tipped to become the ninth Asian qualifier. Elsewhere, New Caledonia, Jamaica, and DR Congo will convene in Guadalajara later this month to contest a separate three-way battle for a remaining tournament berth.