The Iraqi national team meets Bolivia in the final of the global playoff qualifier for the 2026 World Cup at the Monterrey Stadium at 6:00 AM on Wednesday Doha and Baghdad time, where the 'Lions of Mesopotamia' will wear the green jersey against Bolivia's white, in a match described by followers as the 'match of a lifetime.'

In this context, former international player and coach Ali Wahib offered technical advice to Iraq's coach Graham Arnold, identifying a weakness he believes requires urgent attention before the anticipated meeting.

Wahib said in exclusive statements to the winwin platform: 'Facing Bolivia requires a precise tactical reading. I see that a conservative approach relying on counterattacks might be the most suitable option for Iraq in such decisive encounters.'

He added: 'Arnold has relied in recent matches on defensive organization and swift counterattacks, which has been a clear trend in the team's recent performances. But the nature of this match is different; it is the match of a lifetime, and winning must be achieved by all possible means.'

Wahib continued: 'Decisive matches cannot afford excessive offensive adventures, especially since Bolivia possesses elements capable of exploiting spaces and transitions. Balance between defense and attack is necessary, avoiding reckless advances; the responsibility will be significant on the midfield and defense players in managing this equation.'

He pointed out that the team has names capable of executing counterattacks efficiently, adding: 'Mohanad Ali, Ali Jassim, and Ali Al-Hamadi have the speed and ability to exploit spaces behind the opponent's defenses, so I hope the playing style is built on counterattacks as they are the most effective in such circumstances.'

Regarding the most prominent weakness, Wahib said: 'The team suffers from a slow transition to the defensive state after losing the ball, which might give Bolivia a chance to threaten the goal. We also face a relative difficulty in converting opportunities into goals, which is an issue that must be overcome on this night.'

He added: 'The match requires high focus and tight defensive organization while utilizing the players' capabilities optimally. Choosing the appropriate tactical style will be the key to crossing. I expect the first minutes to be very difficult for Iraq, so discipline remains a crucial factor.'

Arnold had warned his players against arguing or talking excessively with the Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton (35 years old), known for frequently showing colored cards in the matches he has officiated in recent years, in a message aimed at maintaining calm and avoiding any decisions that might complicate the 'Lions of Mesopotamia's' mission on a pivotal night on the road to the World Cup.