World Cup Qualifiers: Iraq and Palestine Set to Compete in Asia’s Third Round Clash

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers progress in Asia, Iraq and Palestine are scheduled to face off in a crucial third-round encounter at the Mubarak International Stadium on Thursday. Both teams continue their campaign for a spot in the world’s most prestigious football tournament, with Iraq hoping to solidify their position among the group favorites after previously advancing with a perfect second-round record.

Iraq enters the match on the back of strong performances in the qualifiers, having accumulated four points from their first two matches in the third round. Their opening game in this phase resulted in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Oman, followed by a goalless draw against Kuwait. Despite being reduced to ten men early in the game after Rebin Sulaka’s red card, Iraq managed to maintain their unbeaten status in the ongoing qualifiers.

The Iraqi team, also known as the Usood al-Rafidayn, aims to reach the World Cup group stages for the first time since 1986. They have shown commendable defensive capability, conceding only two goals across eight qualifying matches to date. Without their suspended defender Rebin Sulaka, Iraq looks to players like Aymen Hussein and a roster of experienced international stars to secure an important win on home soil.

In contrast, Palestine is striving for a historic first World Cup appearance. The team advanced from the second round in a challenging group that included Australia and Bangladesh. They began the third round with mixed results—a commendable draw against South Korea followed by a 3-1 defeat to Jordan.

Palestine faces an uphill battle in securing a spot in the next stages but remains hopeful. Their main attacking threat, from Belgian club Charleroi, will be crucial in Thursday’s clash. Abdallah Jaber, the team’s captain and seasoned defender, alongside Wessam Abou Ali, who scored in their recent match against Jordan, will be pivotal as they seek an upset win in Basra.

According to data projections, Iraq is heavily favored, with an 86% likelihood of victory, compared to just a 3.5% chance for Palestine. Nonetheless, Palestine is determined to challenge the odds and disrupt the Iraqi defensive line in what promises to be an intense competition for World Cup qualification points.