Iraq head coach Graham Arnold has called on FIFA to support his federation as the conflict between its neighbor Iran and the United States and Israel intensifies, which could affect the team’s plans as they seek to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years.
The Iraqi national team, popularly known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, will face the winner of the tie between Suriname and Bolivia on March 31 in the Mexican city of Monterrey.
Arnold asked the football’s governing body to come up with an alternative plan for Iraq’s crucial play-off, according to comments carried by the Iraqi federation in a message on X.
“A team made up solely of players who are outside Iraq would not be our best team, and we need to have our best squad available for the country’s most important match in 40 years,” said the coach.
A team made up solely of players who are outside Iraq would not be our best team
The closure of Iraqi airspace due to the conflict in the Middle East and travel restrictions could prevent Arnold’s players and staff from arriving in time for the competition.
“If FIFA were to delay the match it would give us time to prepare properly. Let Bolivia play Suriname this month and, a week before the World Cup, we face the winner in the United States,” he said.
“There would also be more time to decide with Iran”
Iraqi airspace, and that of most Middle Eastern countries, has been closed since February 28, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, and Tehran’s subsequent reprisals against targets across the region.
“In my opinion, it would also give FIFA more time to decide what they are going to do with Iran. If Iran withdraws, we would go into the World Cup and that would also give the United Arab Emirates, who we beat in qualifying, the opportunity to prepare to face Bolivia or Suriname,” Arnold told the Australian Associated Press.