In a celebratory atmosphere at Basra International Stadium, Iraqi national team coach Graham Arnold expressed his great pride in his players' performance after the important 2-1 victory over the UAE in the second leg of the Asian playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff.

Arnold confirmed in the press conference that the match was by no means easy, pointing out that the UAE team showed strong periods during the game, but the high spirit of the Iraqi players was the decisive factor in changing the course of the match.

He added that the team deserved the win for the fighting and determination they showed, congratulating the players who maintained their focus and successfully handled the difficult scenarios of the match.

The coach thanked the large number of Iraqi fans who attended, affirming that their support was a great motivation for the players throughout the match minutes, and explained that the massive crowd he witnessed reflects the team's place in the hearts of Iraqis, and the team will work to repay this loyalty with a performance worthy of the fans' ambitions in the upcoming phase.

Arnold pointed out that the victory over the UAE is an important step but not the end, noting that the technical staff will begin preparing the team for the next stage starting today, and clarified that he is working on building a team capable of competing in the World Cup.

He added that only the most ready players will be selected, excluding those who do not deliver the required level, because World Cup participation will not be a passing phase but a challenge that requires the highest levels of readiness.

The Australian continued by saying that Iraq is now just one step away from reaching the 2026 World Cup, adding that the team has exceptional talents capable of making a difference in the intercontinental playoff, and promised the fans that the team will prepare in the best possible way to achieve the dream that Iraqi football has awaited for years.