Iraq coach and former Australian footballer Graham Arnold appealed to FIFA on Monday for help for his federation as the escalating conflict between neighboring Iran and the United States could affect the team’s plans as it seeks to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years.
The Iraqi team, popularly known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, will face the winner of the qualifier between Suriname and Bolivia on March 31 in the Mexican city of Monterrey in a single match.
Requests FIFA for an alternative plan
Arnold called on soccer’s highest governing body to come up with an alternative plan for the crucial Iraq playoff.
According to a statement published by the Iraqi federation in a message on X.
“A team made up solely of players who are out of Iraq would not be our best team.”
“And we need to have our best squad available for the country’s biggest game in 40 years,” the coach noted.
The closure of Iraqi airspace due to the conflict in the Middle East and travel restrictions could prevent Arnold’s players and coaching staff from arriving in time for the competition.
“If FIFA were to delay the match it would give us time to prepare properly.”
“Let Bolivia play against Suriname this month and, a week before the World Cup, let us play the winner in the United States,” he said (Filed as: Iraq asks FIFA for help).
Middle East airspace closure complicates Iraq’s future
Iraq asks FIFA to postpone its 2026 World Cup playoff match in Monterrey due to airspace closures#Latinus #InformationForTihttps://t.co/4qvdRwQDmX
– Latinus (@latinus_us) March 8, 2026
We need to have our best squad available
Graham Arnold
Iraqi airspace, and that of most Middle Eastern countries, has been closed since February 28.
This when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation against targets throughout the region.
“In my opinion, it would also give FIFA more time to decide what Iran is going to do.”
“If Iran withdraws, we would get into the World Cup and that would also give the United Arab Emirates, who we beat in qualifying, a chance to prepare to face Bolivia or Suriname.”
Arnold told the Australian Associated Press (Filed under: Iraq asks FIFA for help).
With information from EFE
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