In a strategic move to ensure strong support for their national team, the Iraqi Football Association has purchased all tickets allocated to Iraqi fans for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying playoff match against the UAE. The match, scheduled for November 13 at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, will see Iraqi fans unable to purchase tickets directly from the UAE Football Association (UAEFA) website. This decision underscores the importance of the match as the first leg of the playoffs, with the second leg set to take place in Iraq on November 18. The aggregate winner of the two matches will advance to the intercontinental playoff, keeping alive the dreams of both teams to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The UAE team, still reeling from a recent defeat to Qatar, views this playoff as a crucial opportunity to revive their World Cup aspirations. The UAEFA has extended a warm welcome to the Iraqi team and its fans, referring to the UAE as their ‘second home.’
UAE vs Iraq in Abu Dhabi: Iraqi Football Association buys all tickets for its fans
