Al-ghadrian: The Iraqi Football Association has officially requested the postponement of their World Cup qualifying playoff match, rejecting FIFA's plan for the team to travel overland to Turkey before flying to Mexico.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the association's decision follows a report by The Guardian revealing FIFA's travel proposal for the Iraqi national team. The suggestion has been met with resistance as the team prefers a more straightforward and less strenuous travel arrangement.

National team coach Graham Arnold has urged FIFA to delay the matchup against the winner of the Bolivia-Suriname game. The coach argues that a postponement would provide clarity on whether Iran will participate in the World Cup or if the UAE will secure qualification for the playoff, ensuring fair preparation time for all teams involved.