Iraq will play in a six-team play-off in March to qualify for the 2026 World Cup
Iraq scored a dramatic penalty winner in the 17th minute of added time to claim a dramatic win over the United Arab Emirates and keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup alive.
Amir Al-Ammari scored from the spot in the 107th minute to seal a 3-2 aggregate win and secure Iraq's place in the intercontinental play-offs next year.
Caio Lucas had opened the scoring for the UAE in the 52nd minute and they almost doubled their advantage two minutes later when Nicolas Gimenez's volley crashed against the crossbar.
But Mohanad Ali headed home Al-Ammari's free-kick to draw Graham Arnold's side level 14 minutes later.
Ali then missed two good chances, before Iraq were awarded a late penalty for handball.
Yahia Nader swatted away Ali's header and referee Yusuke Araki awarded the spot-kick after being sent to the pitchside monitor by the video assistant referee (VAR).
Iraq, whose only appearance at a World Cup was a group-stage exit in Mexico 39 years ago, will play in a six-team play-off in March where two nations will qualify for next summer's tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The late drama sparked scenes of jubilation on the pitch and in the stands of Basra International Stadium.
The latest goal to ever be scored in the Premier League was by Oli McBurnie when he netted in the 102nd minute for Sheffield United against West Ham in January 2024.
