Iraq secured a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff final on Tuesday, sealing their first appearance at the tournament in 40years.

Scenes of celebration erupted at Monterrey Stadium as the “Lions of Mesopotamia” completed a long-awaited return to the global stage, their first since 1986.

Iraq started strongly and nearly opened the scoring early when Amir Al Ammari forced a save from Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra. From the ensuing corner, Al Ammari delivered a cross that Ali Al Hamadi converted in the 10th minute to give Iraq the lead.

Bolivia responded before halftime, with Moises Paniagua equalizing in the 38th minute to send the teams into the break level at 1-1.

Iraq regained control early in the second half after coach Graham Arnold made two substitutions. Aymen Hussein restored the lead in the 53rd minute, finishing a decisive move that proved to be the winner.

Bolivia pushed for another equalizer, and Roberto Fernandez tested Iraq’s goalkeeper with a strong effort around the hour mark, but Iraq’s defense held firm under pressure.

The victory capped a demanding 28-month qualifying campaign spanning 21 matches, sending Iraq’s 46 million people into celebration as the team returns to the World Cup for the first time in four decades.