Al-Hammadi: Iraq’s Long Road to World Cup 2026
Historic Victory Over Bolivia Secures Qualification
Iraqi striker Ali Al-Hammadi scored the opening goal in a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament Final, securing Iraq’s place at the World Cup finals.
Al-Hammadi’s Journey and the Longest Qualifier Route
The 24-year-old revealed to TalkSport that Iraq played 21 matches in the qualifiers – more than any other team – with journeys often exceeding 30 hours due to airspace closures.
Iraq is a country built on patience and strength, and what has been achieved is a day that will remain etched in our memories.Looking Ahead: Fitness and Group Stage Ambitions
Al-Hammadi, who was born in Iraq and raised in Britain, is preparing to return to full fitness with his English club Luton Town after injury limited him to just eight matches this season, aiming to be at his best when Iraq face France, Norway and Senegal in the group stage.
- Opening goal in 2-1 win vs Bolivia
- 21 qualifier matches, most of any team
- Over 46 million Iraqis watched the match
- 24-year-old Al-Hammadi
- Luton Town player targeting full fitness
