Iraq Secures Valuable Win Over Oman in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Striker Ayman Hussain scored the winning goal for Iraq in their 1-0 victory over Oman in the first round of the second group competition for the third round of Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, held in Basra on Thursday.

Match Highlights

The “Lions of Mesopotamia” created an early goal threat, with Youssef Amin’s shot from outside the penalty area being deflected by Omani goalkeeper Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini for a corner in the first minute. Ayman Hussain’s header was also saved by Al-Mukhaini in the fourth minute, and he attempted again in the 12th minute.

Iraq’s possession and chances led to a header for Hussain after a corner kick by Ali Jassim in the 13th minute. Oman’s response was limited, with Abdulrahman Al-Mushaifri scoring twice with headers in the 16th and 24th minutes. Issam Al-Soubi also fought back with a shot in the 25th minute, followed by Al-Saadi and Jamil Al-Yahmadi’s long-range shot being blocked by Jalal Hasan in the 27th minute.

Second Half

The pace of the game slowed significantly in the second half, with both teams lacking real danger. Oman sought an equalizer, while Iraq aimed to secure the win. Czech coach Jaroslavi Sezelhavy’s players almost achieved their goal in the 88th minute when Abdullah Fawaz’s powerful shot was saved by Hasan.

Match Conclusion

In the fifth minute of stoppage time, Omani midfielder Murshid Al Alawi was red-carded for a foul. The win lifted Iraq to three points at the top of Group Two, one ahead of South Korea and Palestine. Iraq will host Kuwait on Tuesday, while Oman will host South Korea in the second round on the same day.

Upcoming Matches

Jordan will host Kuwait later in the same group, while Iraq and Oman prepare for their next matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.