The Iraqi national team faces a decisive encounter against Bolivia in the global playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, next Wednesday morning in the Mexican city of Monterrey, which the Lions of Mesopotamia delegation reached last Sunday.

The Bolivian team had surpassed Suriname with a 2-1 victory last Friday morning, setting up a meeting with Iraq, which plays only one match in this playoff due to its ranking by FIFA, as it is ninety minutes away from the World Cup dream.

Former assistant coach of Iraq, Nizar Ashraf, said: "The Iraqi team appears better with the Australian coach Graham Arnold compared to the previous period. The current technical work combines theoretical and practical aspects on the field to instill the technical staff's ideas in the players."

He added: "Arnold is keen to convey his ideas clearly through theoretical lectures on screen, along with field training, which helps create intellectual harmony between the players and the technical staff and enhances understanding of tactical duties on the field."

Ashraf directed an important request to the national team players, continuing: "The team has a good opportunity today to present a distinguished level. The players appearing in their best form on match day is a crucial factor in achieving the desired result, especially in a pivotal encounter like the World Cup playoff against Bolivia."

He continued: "It is essential to avoid mistakes in the early minutes. We remember what happened in the matches against South Korea and Kuwait after the early dismissals and their impact on the course of the meetings. Excessive aggression and enthusiasm in big matches can lead to loss."

He concluded by emphasizing: "Focus and mental discipline will be the most important factors in the anticipated match, and I expect coach Arnold to pay significant attention to this aspect during preparation. I hope the players avoid contact with the referee and refrain from engaging in discussions and arguments with him, as he quickly shows colored cards."