Today’s results: Iraq clinched the last spot for the 2026 World Cup finals, marking their return after 40 years.
On 1 Apr 2026 GMT+7, the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff final, Group 2, featured Iraq, ranked 59th globally and representing Asia, against Bolivia, ranked 76th and representing South America. The neutral venue was Monterrey, Mexico.
In the first half, Iraq took an early 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 by 18-year-old rising star Moises Paniagua.
In the second half, Iraq secured the winning goal at the 53rd minute by Aimen Hussein, marking his 33rd goal in his 93rd international appearance. Iraq defeated Bolivia 2-1 and earned the 48th and final spot for the 2026 World Cup finals.
This marks Iraq’s first World Cup finals appearance in 40 years, since the 1986 tournament in Mexico. In that edition, Iraq was eliminated in the group stage after losing all three matches to host Mexico, Paraguay, and Belgium.