The Iraqi national team has faced significant challenges in preparing for the match due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. This led to the cancellation of its training camp in the United States and delays in issuing travel visas for several delegation members. The team had to travel by land to Jordan before heading to the Mexican city of Monterrey on a chartered flight provided by FIFA. On Tuesday, in Monterrey, the Iraqi team will play a crucial match against Bolivia in the playoff for a spot in the final stages of the 2026 World Cup. Iraq is attempting to reach the World Cup for the second time in its history, after its only appearance in 1986.
