The match between Iraq and Palestine has just kicked off at Amman International Stadium, as part of the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The teams are fighting hard for crucial points in the standings. Iraq, currently in third place in Group B, is aiming to secure a win to snatch the second spot from Jordan (with only one point ahead). South Korea leads the group, while Oman and Kuwait trail behind them.
Today marks a long-anticipated clash with historical significance. Iraq boasts a favorable record against Palestine, having won 13 of their 17 encounters. Their last meeting in October 2024 ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Iraq. According to reports, Palestine has recently struggled, with no wins in their last international fixtures, leading to a moribund qualification campaign with hopes dwindling. Their last victory dates back to March 2024. With the stakes high, Iraq is looking to end their 40-year absence from the World Cup while Palestine fights for FIFA ranking prestige and survival in the qualifiers.
Both teams walked onto the pitch with determination, ready for an intense confrontation. The encounter kicked off at 11:45 PM IST (Indian Standard Time), but the build-up began much earlier. Palestine’s coach had shifted strategies, opting for a more aggressive 4-3-3 formation after struggling with their previous matches. The change aimed to create more scoring opportunities, essential for a side that had not found the back of the net consistently.
As the first half progressed, the match saw both teams exchanging blows. Iraq struck first, as Aymen Hussein found the net after meeting a perfect cross from Ibraheem Bayesh, showing their intention to dominate early. Iraq's fans erupted in cheers, sensing the momentum was in their favor. However, Palestine did not back down easily. Desperate to secure a goal, they pressed forward but struggled to capitalize on any chances.
The match eventually saw Palestine equalize. Wessam Abou Ali leveled the score shortly after halftime, taking advantage of a free kick that the Iraqi defense failed to handle effectively. The Amman International Stadium erupted as Palestine fans rallied around their team, driven by fervor and hope after many matches without success.
Despite the renewed energy and support, Palestine had to contend with Iraq's defensive resilience. Both teams made substitutions as the match wore on, hoping to find the decisive touch as tired legs set in. Amidst the pressures and tactical shifts in play, Iraq played cautiously while Palestine seemed to have gained momentum.
In the closing minutes, the game took a dramatic turn. With the match approaching stoppage time, Amin Mahajna emerged as Palestine's hero. He headed a beautifully delivered corner kick into the net, securing the win for Palestine in a hard-fought battle. His celebration was a mixture of relief and celebration, as the long-awaited victory re-ignited hopes for Palestine's qualification.
This match not only marked a significant result for Palestine—but also reminded everyone of the competitiveness these teams possess in regional football. The outcome left Iraq's aspirations in jeopardy as they now have to regroup after a bitter defeat. The current standings for Group B remain precarious, with South Korea still leading, paving the way for a thrilling conclusion as the World Cup qualifiers progress.
As the players exited the field, the crowd remained in high spirits, applauding Palestine's spirited effort to overcome a challenging qualification campaign. This match will surely be remembered as a turning point for a team that faced adversity, now looking forward to their future fixtures in the qualifiers, hoping their newfound momentum can lead to a return to form and potentially a chance at the World Cup stage.
