Iraq's Last-Minute Penalty Drama: World Cup Dream Continues

Iraq triumphed over the United Arab Emirates with a late penalty, securing a 2-1 win and a 3-2 aggregate playoff victory. This dramatic game, held at Basra International Stadium, reignites Iraq's World Cup dreams as they advance to the intercontinental playoffs, aiming for their first appearance since 1986.

Iraq secured a last-minute 2-1 home victory over the United Arab Emirates, thanks to a penalty by Amir Al-Ammari, keeping their World Cup dreams alive with a 3-2 aggregate win. The dramatic match took place at Basra International Stadium in front of a packed crowd.

Amir Al-Ammari's penalty, taken 17 minutes into stoppage time, propelled Graham Arnold's side into the upcoming intercontinental playoffs in March. Iraq's Mohanad Ali had earlier scored an equaliser in the 66th minute after Caio Lucas gave the UAE an advantage with his strike.

Iraq, striving for their first World Cup appearance since 1986, now joins five other teams in playoff contention. The match gained momentum in the second half as Nicolas Gimenez nearly scored a second for the UAE. Eventually, a set piece led to Iraq's equalizer, and Al-Ammari's penalty sealed the victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)