Iraqi national team players look forward to showcasing outstanding and distinguished performances in the crucial intercontinental playoff match, which directly qualifies for the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Iraq will face the winner of the Bolivia vs. Suriname match in the intercontinental playoff, scheduled to be held in the Mexican city of Monterrey on the morning of April 1st. This decisive match is eagerly awaited by the Iraqi sports community.

Iraqi coach Hassan Ahmed said in exclusive statements to winwin: "The levels of the Iraqi national team players will be high and distinguished in the crucial intercontinental playoff match, especially in light of the strong movement of players during the current winter transfer period, as everyone is racing to present their best to secure their place in coach Graham Arnold's list."

He added: "We support the professionalism of national team players in strong leagues, and certainly, the Saudi league is one of the most prominent leagues at the moment, thanks to the big names present in it. This will positively reflect on the levels of players like Haider Abdul Kareem, Ibrahim Bayesh, and Ali Jassim, as strong competition clearly develops the player."

He explained: "I see that the biggest bet will be on player Haider Abdul Kareem, and I expect coach Graham Arnold to include him in the national team list for the intercontinental playoff. He is a young and distinguished player in the midfield, possessing great capabilities, and has not yet received his full opportunity."

Hassan Ahmed confirmed: "Another positive point is Marco Faraj's move to the Italian league, as I believe this step will greatly help him in honing his talent. I hope he continues his journey with the Venezia team because he is a player with remarkable speed and shooting, and he will have a significant future."

He concluded his remarks by saying: "In the past, there was real concern about the situation of the national team players, but today, after the development of some names and the professional steps they have taken, I see that there is no fear for the Iraqi national team. It will be ready and possess distinguished elements in facing the crucial intercontinental playoff."

The Iraqi sports community hopes that the Lions of Mesopotamia will succeed in overcoming the obstacle of the intercontinental playoff and achieve the dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after many years of waiting.