VIDEO: Jordan celebrates first-ever World Cup qualification

Iraq edged past Jordan in a narrow 1-0 win in a match that had no effect in terms of World Cup qualification.

Sajad Mohammad scored Iraq’s only goal in the 77th minute.

Celebrations are taking place at Amman International Stadium after the game to celebrate Jordan's first-ever World Cup qualification. 

A Historic Moment for Jordan

Jordan secured their maiden World Cup berth last week with a commanding 3-0 victory over Oman, thanks to a scintillating hat-trick by Ali Olwan.

The result, coupled with South Korea’s 2-0 win over Iraq, ensured Jordan’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Nashama’s remarkable journey in Group B, where they amassed 16 points, has sparked nationwide celebrations, with fans flooding the streets of Amman and a spectacular drone light show illuminating the capital’s skies.

Iraq’s Bid for Pride

Iraq, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, are in third place in Group B with 15 points after their win against Jordan. The team already secured third place which sends them to round four of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers.

Their hopes of direct qualification were dashed by last week’s defeat to South Korea.

Led by coach Graham Arnold, Iraq have shown flashes of brilliance, including a 1-0 win over Oman and a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Jordan in Basra earlier this campaign. However, their inconsistent results, including a stunning 2-1 loss to Palestine in Amman, have left them with work to do.

Historically, Iraq holds a record of two wins and five draws in the last nine encounters in Amman.

Their most recent meeting in November 2024 ended in a goalless stalemate.

A Night of Celebration

Beyond the result, tonight’s match is a milestone for Jordanian football. King Abdullah II, who watched the Oman game from London wearing a national team jersey and is in attendance at Amman International Stadium, is expected to join fans in celebrating this historic achievement, along with Crown Prince Hussein and Queen Rania.

The Players Express Gratitude

Jordan's national football team players have expressed their pride and joy after securing a historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first in the country’s history. The players extended their gratitude to the Jordan Football Association and the fans who stood by them throughout their World Cup journey. 

Captain Ihsan Haddad said:
"Thank you to His Majesty King Abdullah II, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, and the Jordan Football Association for their great support. We worked hard and pushed ourselves to reach this achievement. Qualifying for the World Cup is the result of that effort. We are proud to wear this badge on our hearts. May Jordan always celebrate joyful moments like this."

Winger Mousa Al-Tamari added:
"All praise to God for the blessing of Jordan. We’re here to bring joy to our people. These are unforgettable moments."

Forward Yazan Al-Naimat said:
"This country deserves this happiness. We must continue to support each other until our very last breath and final day."

Jordan's qualification for the 2026 World Cup marks a major milestone for the nation's football program, showcasing the team’s determination, growth, and national pride.