- Iraq qualifies for the World Cup for the first time since 1986 after a 2–1 win over Bolivia
- Baghdad erupts in celebrations with fireworks, music, and nationwide street gatherings
- Despite ongoing Middle East conflict, citizens unite in joy and national pride
- The Iraqi government has snnounced bonuses for players and a two-day national holiday
Baghdad came alive in scenes of celebration early Wednesday, April 1, as Iraq secured a historic qualification for the World Cup, sparking nationwide jubilation despite ongoing regional tensions.
Music, fireworks, and sporadic gunfire filled the streets of the capital as fans poured out in excitement after the national team, popularly known as the “Lions of Mesopotamia”, booked their place in the global tournament for the first time in decades.
The 2–1 victory over Bolivia on Tuesday, March 31, sealed Iraq’s first World Cup appearance since the 1986 edition held in Mexico.
The achievement came against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East in late February, when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, drawing Iraq into the wider crisis.
Since the escalation, over 100 lives have reportedly been lost in Iraq.
Despite the ongoing unrest, Iraqis gathered in large numbers across Baghdad on Wednesday, April 1, particularly along a major shopping street in the Karrada district, to celebrate their team’s success.
“This victory is incredibly precious to us, despite the war raging,” Ahmed, 22, told AFP outside a cafe in central Karrada.
“The Iraqi people are united across all sects,” he added, drawing parallels with Iraq’s 2007 Asian Cup triumph during a period of intense sectarian violence.
Waving national flags, thousands filled the streets, with some climbing onto vehicles to get a better view of the celebrations.
Many were visibly emotional as the scale of the achievement sank in.
Even street vendors joined in the festivities. Tea sellers, who typically earn modest incomes, offered drinks for free as they shared in the collective joy.
“Despite the dire economic situation and the war, our national team won,” Ali al-Muhandis told AFP. “We in Iraq excel in exceptional circumstances. We are living through a war that has nothing to do with us, because it’s between Iran, America and Israel.”
Iraq has been caught in the crossfire of the conflict, with attacks targeting US-linked sites in the country as well as strikes against pro-Iran groups.
The situation has disrupted a period of relative calm after years of instability.
The team’s journey to Mexico, where the World Cup will be held, was itself challenging. The squad endured a demanding three-day trip, with parts of the journey completed overland after air travel was halted due to the conflict.
Despite these hurdles, the players delivered an inspiring performance, with Ali Al-Hamadi and Aymen Hussein both finding the back of the net.
State television broadcast scenes of celebration across the country, while the government issued congratulations and promised bonuses for the team.
Authorities also declared a two-day public holiday in recognition of the achievement.
Iraq is now set to compete in Group I of the World Cup, where they will face France, Senegal, and Norway.