South Korea's national football team, under the guidance of coach Hong Myung-bo, is gearing up for a crucial away match against Iraq on June 6, 2025, at 3:15 AM KST at Basra International Stadium. This fixture, part of the 2026 North & Central America World Cup Asian Qualifiers third round Group B, holds significant weight as a draw or victory would secure South Korea's 11th consecutive FIFA World Cup finals appearance, a remarkable feat that underscores the nation's footballing consistency.
The stakes couldn't be higher. South Korea currently leads Group B with 16 points from 8 matches, boasting an unbeaten run of 4 wins and 4 draws. Close on their heels are Jordan with 13 points and Iraq with 12 points, both eager to challenge South Korea's dominance. For Iraq, the upcoming match is pivotal; they must defeat South Korea to keep their direct qualification hopes alive, especially with their final group match against Jordan looming. The pressure is tangible, and the Iraqi government is reportedly rallying behind the team, providing morale boosts such as team gatherings ahead of the game.
Historically, South Korea holds a commanding record against Iraq, having faced them 24 times with 10 wins, 12 draws, and only 2 losses. Notably, South Korea has secured three consecutive victories in recent encounters, including a 3-2 win in October 2024 on home soil, highlighted by goals from Oh Se-hun, Oh Hyun-gyu, and Lee Jae-sung. However, South Korea has never triumphed on Iraqi soil; their last away match in Iraq was a goalless friendly in Baghdad back in 1990, marking 35 years since their last visit. The upcoming match is thus laden with historical significance and challenges.
Environmental factors add to the difficulty. Basra's climate is harsh, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures lingering around 35 degrees. Additionally, South Korean fans are unable to travel due to diplomatic travel restrictions, leaving the home crowd's passionate support to energize the Iraqi side. The match officials have also been noted for their partiality in previous games, adding another layer of complexity for the visiting team.
Coach Hong Myung-bo addressed these challenges at a press conference held on June 5, 2025, at Basra International Stadium. He acknowledged the difficulty ahead, stating, "I do not expect an easy game, but I trust our players to perform well as they have done so far. We have prepared thoroughly to secure a good result." Hong's confidence is bolstered by his squad's resilience and unity. Midfielder Hwang In-beom, representing Feyenoord, echoed this sentiment, remarking, "The players have come together and prepared well. Despite the pressure of playing a strong team like Iraq away, we believe we will achieve a good result on the field." This shared optimism is crucial as the team faces the daunting task ahead.
However, the South Korean squad is not at full strength. Key defender Kim Min-jae remains sidelined due to injury, a setback that echoes his absence earlier in March. Captain Son Heung-min, recently returned from injury late in the season, has an uncertain condition, leading coach Hong to adjust the starting lineup with a focus on game performance by position. Star players such as Son Heung-min of Tottenham Hotspur and Lee Kang-in of Paris Saint-Germain are expected to start on the bench, potentially being introduced in the second half to inject energy and experience.
Adding fresh talent to the squad is Jeon Jin-woo from Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, who made his national team debut for this qualifier stage. Coach Hong praised Jeon's prolific scoring record in the K-League and his confident play beyond goal-scoring. "Initially, Jeon Jin-woo played primarily on the flanks engaging in one-on-one situations, but now he moves more in pocket spaces, which fits well with our team's style," Hong explained. This tactical nuance could provide South Korea with a creative edge in breaking down Iraq's defense.
The group standings after eight matches paint a competitive picture. South Korea sits atop with 16 points, followed by Jordan at 13 points and Iraq at 12 points. Oman, Palestine, and Kuwait trail behind, with Kuwait considered the weakest side in the group. The final match for South Korea is scheduled against Kuwait on June 10, 2025, at 8:00 PM KST in Seoul's World Cup Stadium, a game anticipated to be less challenging but critical if South Korea were to stumble against Iraq.
The match against Iraq is more than just a qualifier; it is a test of South Korea's ability to overcome adverse conditions and maintain their long-standing World Cup streak. Securing at least a draw would not only guarantee their spot in the 2026 World Cup finals but also mark their 12th overall appearance, including their debut in 1954 and their consistent presence since 1986.
Fans can watch the South Korea vs. Iraq match live on Coupang Play and KBS2, while the subsequent home fixture against Kuwait will also be broadcasted for supporters eager to witness the final step toward qualification.
As the team prepares to face Iraq in Basra, the combination of historical rivalry, environmental adversity, and the high stakes of World Cup qualification creates a compelling narrative. Coach Hong Myung-bo's unwavering belief in his players and the team's strategic adjustments highlight South Korea's determination to extend their World Cup legacy, even as the challenges mount. The football world will be watching closely as this pivotal match unfolds, with South Korea poised to either confirm their place among the world's elite or face a tense finale against Kuwait.
