JABAR.JPNN.COM, KOTA BANDUNG – The Iraq National Team has officially secured a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff. The decisive match took place at Estadio BBVA Bancomer in Mexico on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the Mesopotamian Lions on the global football stage.
This triumphant qualification has been met with enthusiastic support across Indonesia, particularly among residents of West Java. The reason for this widespread excitement stems from the fact that one of Iraq’s key players, Frans Putros, currently plies his trade with local powerhouse club Persib Bandung. Consequently, Persib is now set to have a proud representative competing in the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
Persib Bandung coach, Bojan Hodak, was quick to commend the Iraq National Team on their remarkable achievement. Hodak believes that Iraq’s success in qualifying for the World Cup will undoubtedly have a positive impact on all its players, including his own defender, Putros, who has shown dedication at the club level.
“It’s fantastic that we have a player participating in the World Cup. It’s especially good for him, as Frans Putros is now 30 years old, so this might indeed be his final opportunity to play on such a grand stage,” Hodak remarked when interviewed at the Gelora Bandung Lautan Api (GBLA) Stadium. He elaborated that the chance to perform in the World Cup can open numerous doors for a player on the international scene, emphasizing that this quadrennial event remains an ultimate dream for every professional footballer.
Echoing Hodak’s sentiments, Persib midfielder Thom Haye also expressed his appreciation and mixed emotions regarding Iraq’s qualification. Haye openly admitted to a lingering bitterness from Indonesia’s past defeat by Iraq in the World Cup Qualifiers. However, despite that rivalry, he couldn’t hide his delight for his club teammate.
“I still feel a slight resentment because they defeated us [Indonesia], but I’ve already sent him a private message. I wish him all the best,” Haye stated. As a fellow professional, Haye conveyed immense pride that Putros’s home country has made it to the global tournament. He extended his hopes for his teammate’s success in the upcoming world-class matches.
Haye concluded, “If we didn’t qualify, then we certainly hope he can go to the World Cup; it would be absolutely incredible for him. I’m genuinely happy that he’ll be there.” This sentiment underscores the camaraderie and shared aspirations that transcend club rivalries, celebrating a player’s journey to the pinnacle of football. (mcr27/jpnn)