Published April 1, 2026
Fireworks, sporadic gunfire and music filled the air across Baghdad as Iraq’s national soccer team qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in nearly 40 years.
The Mesopotamian Lions defeated Bolivia 2-1 on Tuesday night to secure their first regular spot since 1986 against Mexico. Iraq became the 48th and final team to qualify.
The team’s accomplishments came during the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, which drew Iraq into hostilities. At least 100 people have been killed in Iraq since fighting began.
Despite the war, supporters flooded Baghdad’s main shopping area at dawn to celebrate their team’s victory.
“Despite the escalation of the war, this victory is incredibly precious to us,” Ahmed, 22, told AFP in front of a cafe in the central Qarada district.
“Iraqi people are united across all sects,” he added, drawing a comparison to Iraq’s victory in the 2007 Asian Cup, when fighting was at its height.
Traffic was brought to a standstill as thousands of people stood on cars and trucks waving Iraqi flags and jubilant crowds, some in tears. Even the streetside tea sellers, who usually struggle to make a living, were filled with elation and shouted, “Free tea!”
“Despite the dire economic situation and the war, our national team won,” Ali al-Muhandis told AFP, his voice hoarse from the cheering. “We in Iraq excel in exceptional circumstances. We are living a war that has nothing to do with us, because it is between Iran, America and Israel.”
Iraq has been unwillingly drawn into the conflict and faces attacks against U.S. interests and pro-Iranian militants within its borders. This has disrupted a period of relative stability that Iraqis have enjoyed after decades of instability.
The Iraqi team arrived in Mexico after an arduous three-day journey, with some players forced to travel partially by land as Iraq suspended air travel due to the war. Despite the difficulties, Ali Al Hammadi and Aymen Hussein each scored a goal, resulting in a memorable victory.
State television broadcast nationwide footage of Iraqi leaders congratulating the team. Officials promised financial bonuses for victory and two days off after victory.
Iraq will face France, Senegal and Norway in Group I of the World Cup.
