A Tough Journey Brings Iraq from Monterrey to Baghdad
The Iraqi national team delegation began their journey back to their homeland after completing the intercontinental playoff mission qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, following a 2-1 victory over Bolivia at the 'BBVA' stadium in Monterrey, amid a large presence of the Iraqi community.
The 'Lions of Mesopotamia' delegation departed from Monterrey to Barcelona, then to the Jordanian capital Amman, before continuing to Baghdad, in a journey expected to take about 18 hours. This long route comes after a week filled with travel, preparations, and the decisive match.
The delegation is expected to receive an official welcome from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, who promised an honor befitting the historic achievement of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Between the fatigue of a journey extending for about 18 hours and the distribution of players across three continents, the picture is clear: the playoff chapter closed successfully in Monterrey, and the preparation for the World Cup begins immediately as each player returns to their club, before gathering again in Baghdad for a reception befitting the joy.
The 'Lions of Mesopotamia' delegation departed from Monterrey to Barcelona, then to the Jordanian capital Amman, before continuing to Baghdad, in a journey expected to take about 18 hours. This long route comes after a week filled with travel, preparations, and the decisive match.
The delegation is expected to receive an official welcome from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, who promised an honor befitting the historic achievement of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Between the fatigue of a journey extending for about 18 hours and the distribution of players across three continents, the picture is clear: the playoff chapter closed successfully in Monterrey, and the preparation for the World Cup begins immediately as each player returns to their club, before gathering again in Baghdad for a reception befitting the joy.