Iraqi head coach Hamza Dawood called on coach Graham Arnold to make adjustments and reset the Iraqi national team's settings in preparation for participating in the global playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dawood's remarks came after Iraq's 2-1 victory over the UAE in the second leg of the Asian playoff, held at Basra International Stadium in front of a large crowd of 65,000 spectators, confirming that the win was not the end but the first step towards a tougher test in the global playoff.

Dawood said in statements: "The Iraqi national team overcame a difficult phase against the UAE, but it showed some points that need reevaluation, especially in goalkeeping, defense, and midfield. The performance the players showed yesterday was good, but it is not at the level that qualifies the team to face the teams in the global playoff.

He continued: "Even coach Arnold needs to reset things and select the players who are most ready and suitable for the upcoming decisive matches. It is necessary for the technical staff to present a clear plan to the Iraqi Football Association outlining its preparations for the upcoming matches before the global playoff."

Dawood affirmed: "The team must play high-level friendly matches to be ready for any competitor, especially since the global playoff will give Iraq only one chance to qualify for the World Cup."

He concluded his speech by praising the crowd support: "The support provided by the fans yesterday was exceptional, surpassing being the 12th player to becoming part of the entire team. I hope this support continues in the coming period."