Iraq produced an unforgettable comeback as they snatched victory deep into stoppage time to stay in the race for the 2026 World Cup.
The match exploded into life in the dying moments, and the Basra crowd erupted with emotion. Although the pressure was enormous, Iraq showed remarkable resilience throughout the encounter.
The UAE struck first when Caio Lucas fired home shortly after the restart, which briefly tilted momentum in their favour. Moreover, their confidence nearly increased moments later when Nicolas Gimenez smashed a fierce volley against the bar. Iraq looked shaken, yet they began to regain composure quickly.
Mohanad Ali dragged his team back into the contest with a precise header from Amir Al-Ammari’s free-kick. Additionally, the goal reignited belief among the home supporters and shifted the energy of the match. However, Ali soon missed two promising chances that could have settled the tie earlier.
The drama intensified when Iraq earned a decisive penalty after a VAR review confirmed a handball by Yahia Nader. Consequently, Al-Ammari stepped forward with calm determination and placed the ball into the net in the 107th minute. The stadium exploded as players, coaches, and fans celebrated wildly.
ALSO READ:
- Haaland and Sorloth fire Norway to brink of first World Cup in 28 years
- DR Congo sends Super Eagles packing: How the Central Africans outwitted Nigeria in 2026 WC qualifier
- Arsenal’s Gabriel suffers Brazil injury while Calafiori leaves Italy camp
- World Cup 2026: Spain may quit if Israel qualifies
Iraq march into intercontinental play-off with historic late win
The victory secured a 3–2 aggregate triumph and guaranteed Iraq a place in next year’s intercontinental play-offs. Furthermore, the win keeps alive hopes of reaching the World Cup for the first time since their sole appearance 39 years ago. The team will now compete in a six-nation play-off round in March.
Basra International Stadium witnessed scenes of pure jubilation as supporters waved flags, chanted loudly, and embraced strangers. Even the players struggled to contain their emotions as the final whistle confirmed a remarkable turnaround. Despite the tension, the atmosphere quickly transformed into a nationwide celebration.
The match also revived conversations about dramatic late goals in football history. Interestingly, the Premier League’s latest-ever strike came in January 2024 when Sheffield United’s Oli McBurnie scored in the 102nd minute. Iraq’s winner surpassed that moment, making it one of the most extraordinary late goals in recent international football.
With renewed confidence and growing belief, Iraq now look ahead to the decisive play-offs. Although the journey remains difficult, the team’s fighting spirit offers real hope. Ultimately, their dramatic victory has reignited national pride and energized supporters for what comes next.
Tags: Mohanad Ali, Iraq, United Arab Emitates, Basra International Stadium, UAE, Caio Lucas, 2026 World Cup play-offs, #FIFAWCQ, Yahia Nader, Al-Ammari, Nicolas Gimenez.
