Iraq qualifies for first World Cup in 40 years, set to play France in Philadelphia

Iraq clinches World Cup spot, draws France in Philadelphia opener

Iraq has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 40 years, drawing France in their opening match in Philadelphia, with local Iraqi communities in Northeast Philadelphia celebrating and preparing to support their team.

PHILADELPHIA - Iraq’s national soccer team is heading to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 40 years, and Philadelphia will host their highly anticipated match against France. The city’s Iraqi community is preparing to celebrate, with local businesses planning events for fans and visitors.

Iraqi pride shines at Northeast Philadelphia restaurant

What we know:

Iraq clinched its World Cup spot after a 2-1 victory over Bolivia on Tuesday, securing their place in the tournament for the first time in four decades. The team will play its opening match against France in Philadelphia.

What they're saying:

"This business we open, I want to make Iraqi food in Philadelphia because no restaurant make Iraqi food in Philadelphia," said Saif Aljuboori, owner of Crispy Wonders Baghdad Restaurant. "Me and my family we’ve been watching it since 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. 1:30 a.m.," said Hussein, co-owner.

The brothers at Crispy Wonders Baghdad Restaurant in Northeast Philadelphia have become a hub for Iraqi culture and soccer fans. 

Videos from friends and family back home showed celebrations in the streets of Iraq after the win.

Community prepares for World Cup celebrations

Why you should care:

The upcoming match in Philadelphia is expected to draw a large crowd from the local Iraqi community and visitors from abroad. The brothers plan to host a watch party at their restaurant for fans coming in from Iraq and those living in Northeast Philadelphia.

Many Iraqis in Northeast Philadelphia traveled to Mexico to witness the playoff game in person. "Nice morning because 40 years I wait this, thank god," said Aljuboori. "After they win we couldn’t believe it we were all crying it was very good moment for us," said Hussein.

Hussein said, "I’m excited to support my country, support my team and I will be more than happy to help our community here on the game, or before the game if they show up here." The brothers expect a strong turnout from the Iraqi community for the match in Philadelphia.

Ticket sales and next steps for fans

What's next:

Last-minute tickets for the FIFA World Cup are now available to the general public on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

FIFA will open an official resale-exchange marketplace Thursday, allowing people to resell tickets in a secure and authorized environment.

Fans eager to attend the match in Philadelphia can secure their tickets now or look for options on the upcoming resale platform.

What we don't know:

The exact date and time of Iraq’s match against France in Philadelphia have not been announced. Details about additional local events or celebrations are also not yet available.