First leg of World Cup playoff ends in draw with tie going to Basra decider

Nov 16, 2025 - 06:40

Iraqi players celebrating - 964 Media.

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s national football team drew 1-1 with the United Arab Emirates in the first leg of the Asian playoff, setting up a decisive second leg on Nov. 18 at Basra International Stadium.

Ali Hamadi put Iraq in front in the 10th minute, before Luanzinho equalized for the UAE in the 18th. The match was played Thursday at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Iraq reached the playoff round after a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia on Oct. 14 in Jeddah, a result that ended its chances of direct qualification. After that match, Iraq Football Association President Adnan Darjal apologized to supporters, saying, “We must apologize to our loyal fans who supported us in the stadium and through television screens. The opportunity is still there, and we must fight for it fiercely.”

The winner of the second leg in Basra will advance to an inter-confederation playoff in March 2026 for a final World Cup berth.

[Source: 964 Media English]