In a significant move to rally support for the national football team, the Iraqi Governorate of Basra has declared a public holiday on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. This decision coincides with the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup qualifier between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Basra International Stadium, which boasts a capacity of 65,000 spectators. Basra Governor Asaad al-Eidani emphasized the importance of creating a vibrant atmosphere to bolster the Iraqi team, as reported by Iraq’s official news agency.
The match, scheduled for 8pm UAE time, marks the second leg of the fifth-round playoff. The first leg, held in Abu Dhabi on November 13, ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. The stakes are high, as the victor will advance to the six-team intercontinental playoff in March 2026, hosted in Mexico. The top two teams from this playoff will secure the final spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
To facilitate UAE fans’ attendance, the UAE Football Association (UAEFA) has arranged eight private planes to transport supporters to Basra. UAE national team coach Cosmin Olaroiu faces the challenge of leveraging his squad’s depth to keep the nation’s World Cup aspirations alive. This match not only highlights the intense rivalry between the two teams but also underscores the unifying power of football in the region.