Iraq Draw 1-1 With UAE in World Cup Playoff

The Iraqi national football team earned a valuable 1–1 draw against the United Arab Emirates on Thursday in Abu Dhabi, keeping their hopes alive in the final Asian playoff round for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The match, played at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium, opened with strong intensity from both sides. Iraq opened the scoring in the 10th minute as forward Ali Al-Hamadi capitalised on a defensive error to give the Lions of Mesopotamia the lead. The UAE responded quickly, with Luanziho equalising in the 18th minute to bring the score level.

Both teams pushed for a winner in the second half, but despite several promising chances, neither side was able to break the deadlock. 

The draw leaves everything to play for in the decisive second leg, set for Tuesday, 18 November 2025, at Basra International Stadium (Palm Trunk Stadium). Iraq will aim to take full advantage of playing at home, backed by thousands of supporters, as they seek a return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986.