Overview
- Iraq beat the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in Basra to win the tie 3-2 on aggregate.
- A VAR review in the 107th minute confirmed a handball, and Amir Al-Ammari converted the decisive penalty.
- Caio Lucas put UAE ahead in the 52nd minute before Mohanad Ali equalized for Iraq from a set piece at 66'.
- The intercontinental playoff is scheduled for March 23–31, 2026, with Estadio Akron and Estadio BBVA named as host venues, though match assignments are not yet set.
- DR Congo, Bolivia, and New Caledonia have also qualified for the playoff, two CONCACAF spots remain open, and Iraq is seeking its first World Cup appearance since 1986.