After 40 Years, Iraq Are Going Back to the World Cup

The Lions of Mesopotamia last qualified for the World Cup in Mexico in 1986. It seems fitting that they returned to secure their place 40 years on in that very same country, winning 2–1 against Bolivia.

Iraq faced many trials and tribulations to reach this match, after a 12,000 km journey became almost impossible due to the ongoing war. The airspace was closed, the embassy shut its doors, and with a head coach stuck in Dubai, Iraq initially begged to postpone the match, a request FIFA would not accommodate. Eventually, after a 15-hour drive to Amman, an 8-hour flight to Lisbon, and then a further 12 hours to Mexico, the Lions of Mesopotamia made it.

On arrival, Iraq was met with open arms by Mexico. Mexico has been cheering on Iraq since their arrival, with masses of support on social media buying Iraq football t-shirts and tickets to attend their match.

For Iraq, playing under these circumstances is nothing new. They attended the 1986 World Cup against the backdrop of the Iran–Iraq War, they won the 2007 Asian Cup whilst the US war was ongoing, and have now secured their place in the World Cup amidst the current turbulent geopolitical landscape. After 40 years marked by dictatorships, sanctions, war, and destruction, this win is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Iraqi people. A well-deserved wave of hope and joy that not only binds Iraq, but also the diaspora, who continue to cheer them on from afar.

Words by @smizzowrites