Iraq national team players reacted cautiously to the announcement by the International Football Federation assigning Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton to lead the crucial match against Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The match will be held at Monterrey Stadium at 6:00 AM next Wednesday Baghdad time, and the winner will qualify directly to the finals, which is the goal pursued by the Lions of Mesopotamia since their last participation in 1986 in Mexico.

A source from inside the camp said: "The technical staff, led by Graham Arnold, warned the players of Barton's strictness and disciplinary tendencies, especially regarding the frequent issuance of colored cards. The decision was met with clear anticipation within the group."

He added: "Players have been asked to avoid protesting and arguing with the referee, to maintain self-control and steer clear of violent clashes, as any red card could disrupt the team's plans in a match that cannot afford mistakes."

Arnold emphasized the difference between enthusiasm and recklessness. The source continued: "The coach wants a fighting spirit without recklessness. Excessive enthusiasm creates problems we can do without, and the goal is to present a clean match both tactically and ethically, as any uncalculated individual behavior could derail the match."