Iraq’s national football team faces an uncertain path to the 2026 World Cup as head coach Graham Arnold has issued an urgent plea to FIFA to postpone the team’s upcoming intercontinental playoff match.

The critical qualifier, which could secure Iraq’s first World Cup appearance in 40 years, is currently scheduled for March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico, against the winner of a preliminary tie between Suriname and Bolivia.

The request for a delay follows severe logistical disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

With Iraqi airspace closed until April 1, the national team is currently unable to assemble, as a large majority of the squad—comprising mostly domestic league players—remains inside the country.

Furthermore, the closure of various foreign embassies has made it impossible for players and staff to obtain the necessary visas for travel to Mexico.

"Please help us with this game because right now we are struggling to get our players out of the country of Iraq," Coach Arnold told the Australian Associated Press.

Arnold, who is himself stranded in the United Arab Emirates, noted that the turmoil has already forced the cancellation of a vital pre-tournament training camp in Houston.

Addressing the potential for a weakened squad, Arnold emphasized that fielding a team composed only of players based outside of Iraq is not a viable solution for such a monumental fixture.

"It wouldn’t be our best team, and we need our best squad for the country’s biggest game in 40 years," he stated.

In a proposed solution to FIFA, Arnold suggested that the preliminary match between Suriname and Bolivia should proceed as scheduled on March 26.

However, he urged the governing body to delay the final playoff match involving Iraq until just before the World Cup begins in June.

Arnold argued that this strategic shift would provide the necessary time to navigate travel restrictions and allow FIFA to better assess the evolving situation in the region, including the status of Iran’s participation.

Iraqi Football Association President Adnan Dirjal is reportedly working around the clock to organize logistics and secure the team’s participation.

Arnold stressed that a swift decision from FIFA is essential to provide the team with the clarity needed to prepare for the historic encounter.

Source: AP