Instability in the Middle East, as the United States and Israel wage war with Iran, means that a World Cup play-off clash has been placed in doubt due to the impact on travel and administration
Iraq’s ability to continue its ambition to qualify for the World Cup has been plunged into doubt, following the outbreak of war in the Middle East. Iraq are scheduled to compete in a play-off later this month, but now face a number of significant travel issues that could see them stopped in their tracks.
The United States and Israel’s strikes in Iran have seen the nation target US military bases in neighbouring countries, with the likes of Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain being targeted. That has seen air travel almost grind to a halt in the region.
Iraqi Airways and the Ministry of Transportation have informed their national team that the country’s airspace will remain closed for ‘at least four weeks’. It is reported that around 40 per cent of the squad would be left unable to travel.
Iraq are set to face the winners of Bolivia vs Suriname in Monterrey, Mexico, on March 31, for a place at the World Cup in the same country, the United States and Canada. However, Mexico does not have an embassy in Baghdad and alternatives in Qatar and the UAE are now closed.
A number of Iraq’s players and backroom staff are yet to receive visas for Mexico or, additionally, the United States, where a training camp in Houston, Texas, had been planned.
READ MORE: Nine stars who could replace Harry Maguire at World Cup including Chelsea ace and 6ft 7′ giantREAD MORE: Donald Trump gives blunt Iran World Cup verdict after boycott threats
In a statement, the Iraq team confirmed they remained in communication about facilitating arrangements, with the side’s manager, Graham Arnold, unable to leave the UAE currently. The situation continues to be monitored.
The statement read: “The Iraqi National Team management confirms that it received official confirmation from FIFA today regarding the intercontinental playoff match qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
“The match is scheduled to take place in Monterrey, Mexico, on the 31st March. Furthermore, the team’s management clarifies that it continues to communicate with FIFA about the arrangements for the national team’s participation in the intercontinental playoff in light of recent security developments in the Middle East.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page
“FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are fully aware of every development regarding our team’s situation. Because of airspace closures, our head coach, Graham Arnold, is unable to leave the United Arab Emirates.
“In addition, several embassies remain closed at the present time, preventing several professional players, technical and medical staff members from obtaining entry visas to Mexico.
“We assure our loyal supporters that we remain in close contact with both FIFA and the AFC, who are keeping tabs on the situation.”
It is also reported that Iraq are the most likely team to benefit should Iran withdraw from the World Cup. They are the next highest-ranked team based on results from the Asian Football Confederation qualifying tournament.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us – and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
