Today's results: The final nation qualified for the 2026 World Cup finals, making a comeback after 40 years.
On 1 April 2026 GMT+7, the intercontinental playoff final for the 2026 World Cup took place in Group 2. Iraq, ranked 59th worldwide and representing Asia, faced Bolivia, ranked 76th and representing South America. The match was held at a neutral venue in Monterrey, Mexico.
In the first half, Iraq took the lead at the 10th minute through Ali Al Hamadi, a forward from Luton Town in England's League One. Bolivia equalized at the 38th minute with a goal from 18-year-old rising star Moises Paniagua.
In the second half, Iraq scored the winning goal at the 53rd minute by Ayman Hussein, marking his 33rd international goal in his 93rd appearance. Iraq defeated Bolivia 2-1, securing their spot as the 48th and final nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals.
This will be Iraq's first World Cup finals appearance in 40 years, since 1986 in Mexico. At that tournament, Iraq was eliminated in the group stage after losing all three matches to Mexico (the host), Paraguay, and Belgium.