\n
T<\/span>The 2026 World Cup faces an unexpected scenario. Due to the war in the Middle East, the Iraqi team may miss the intercontinental playoffs in Monterrey, Mexico.<\/p>\nThe alarm was sounded after an official statement from the Iraq Football Association said several players and coaching staff were stranded in countries affected by the crisis. The main concerns revolve around the national team coach.<\/p>\n
\n
\nGianni Infantino reveals in seconds why soccer isn’t actually a ball and how it affects people<\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nGraham Arnold stranded in UAE<\/h2>\n Coach Graham Arnold is staying in the UAE, unable to leave the country due to airspace closures. The Iraqi federation said the situation significantly complicates the team’s logistics ahead of international matches.<\/p>\n
“Due to airspace closures, head coach Graham Arnold is unable to leave the UAE. Additionally, several professional players, coaching staff and medical staff are unable to obtain visas to enter Mexico as several embassies remain closed at this time,” the group said in a statement.<\/p>\n
The federation also said it was “in constant contact with FIFA” to find an administrative solution that would allow Asian teams to participate.<\/p>\n
FIFA guarantees playoffs<\/h2>\n Despite the uncertainty, FIFA insists the intercontinental play-offs will go ahead without any problems. The world governing body said it was in contact with relevant federations to ensure all matches could be held as scheduled.<\/p>\n
But the schedule is tight and diplomatic complications could affect the Iraq team’s preparations.<\/p>\n
When will Iraq play?<\/h2>\n Thanks to their position in the FIFA rankings, Iraq has qualified for the intercontinental play-offs and will be able to play a decisive match.<\/p>\n
The match is scheduled for March 31st at Estadio BBVA, known as the “Giant of Steel” in Monterrey, Nuevo Le\u00f3n. The opponent will be the winner of Bolivia vs. Suriname.<\/p>\n
Jamaica and New Caledonia will play in Guadalajara. The winner will play against Republic of Congo.<\/p>\n
uncertain scenario<\/h2>\n The political situation in the Middle East adds external factors that could directly impact the path to the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.<\/p>\n
For now, Iraq’s participation is a logistical and diplomatic concern. A solution will need to be reached within days, as the play-offs are the final gateway to the World Cup and there is little room for maneuver.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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