In a night of high drama across the continents, Iraq made it to the finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Italy suffered another heartbreaking failure to qualify.Iraq became the 48th and last team to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1986, defeating Bolivia 2-1 in an intercontinental playoff in Mexico.Go beyond limits with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Goals from Ali Hammadi and Ayman Hussain secured a memorable victory for a team that overcame immense challenges off the pitch. Preparations were severely disrupted due to conflict in the Middle East, forcing the players to undertake an arduous three-day journey just to reach the venue.Despite the odds, Iraq started strongly, with Hammadi scoring in the ninth minute. Bolivia equalized before half-time, but captain Hussain restored the lead early in the second half with a composed finish. Iraq’s defense then held firm through a tense finale to seal qualification.The result is a major achievement for head coach Graham Arnold, who had previously expressed concern about disrupting the team’s build-up. Iraq will now join France, Senegal and Norway in Group I.
Four-time champions Italy were defeated in the play-off final by Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Image credit: Italy Football)
Italy’s nightmare continues.While Iraq celebrated, Italy suffered another crushing blow. The four-time champions lost in the play-off final to Bosnia and Herzegovina, losing 4-1 in a penalty shootout after a tense draw.Italy took an early lead through Moises Keane, but the game turned around after defender Alessandro Bastoni was sent off before half-time. Bosnia took a late advantage, forcing extra time before Haris Tabkovic held his nerve in the shootout.The decisive moment came when Asmir Bajraktarjevic converted the winning penalty and celebrated wildly.Italy coach Gennaro Gatso admitted the pain of defeat. “It’s hard to digest. I’m proud of the boys, but it’s a huge blow,” he said.The result means Italy will miss out on a third consecutive World Cup – an unprecedented low for one of football’s most decorated nations. Bosnia, meanwhile, returned to the world stage for the first time since 2014.
