The technical staff of the Iraqi national team, led by Australian Graham Arnold, received important warnings before the anticipated second leg match against the UAE, as part of the Asian playoff qualifying for the global playoff, which in turn qualifies for the 2026 World Cup.

Former assistant coach of the Iraqi national team, Nizar Ashraf, stated in special remarks: "Graham Arnold will rely on the same playing style used in the first leg in Abu Dhabi, as it was the best to reduce the threat of the UAE and strike its defenses from the depth by relying on forwards."

Ashraf added: "High pressure will be the coach's weapon to regain possession and create scoring opportunities. This approach was very successful in the first leg, as the UAE defense faced significant problems throughout the match, and Iraq could have ended the match with a win if the opportunities were seized properly."

Ashraf continued: "The Iraqi team must be cautious of playing with an excessively offensive style, especially since Arnold has decided to rely on three forwards in some tactical passes, as this may lead to gaps between the lines and an inability to apply effective pressure in the depth of the UAE defense. Playing with two forwards will be more effective and impactful on the goal."

Ashraf confirmed: "All technical matters will have no impact if the players are not at their best and have not prepared themselves mentally and physically for the match, as the encounter is their last chance to prove they deserve to wear the Iraqi national team jersey and reconcile with the fans."

He added: "The team must exploit the home ground and crowd advantage by facilitating an early goal, so the pressure shifts to the UAE team. If the opposite occurs, the crowd's impact will be negative on the Iraqi players, so focus and caution are required in the early minutes of the match."