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Iraq Qualify for World Cup with Win over Bolivia

On Wednesday, head coach Graham Arnold led Iraq to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 40 years, defeating Bolivia 2-1 at Monterrey Stadium in their play-off clash.
War in Iran disrupted Iraq's preparation, leaving Arnold stranded in Dubai for 10 days as bombs landed near his hotel before he arranged a 20-hour bus trip to Jordan.
Striker Ali Al-Hamadi headed the opener in the 10th minute, and after Bolivia equalized, captain Aymen Hussein secured victory with a second-half goal in the 53rd minute.
Following the final whistle, fans celebrated across Iraq, where 46 million people followed the match; Iraq now faces France, Norway, and Senegal in Group I starting June 16.
Arnold becomes the first Australian coach to qualify for the World Cup with two different nations, cementing his historic legacy after leading Australia to the 2022 round of 16.

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Iraq beat Bolivia 2-1 to claim final World Cup place

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