Iraq Secures World Cup Spot with Victory Over Bolivia

Iraq: Iraq grabbed the last available place at the World Cup by beating Bolivia 2-1 in their inter-confederation playoff on Tuesday, sealing their return to the finals after a 40-year absence. Aymen Hussein steered home a second-half winner to see the Iraqis become the 48th and last team to qualify for the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. According to Emirates News Agency, Ali Al Hamadi handed Iraq a 10th-minute lead at the Monterrey Stadium, but Bolivia equalized before halftime with a goal from Moises Paniagua. Iraq will compete in Group I at the World Cup, which runs from 11th June to 19th July, alongside France, Norway, and Senegal. Iraq's only previous World Cup appearance was in Mexico in 1986, where they lost all three group games. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team as they prepare to compete on the world stage once more.