Iraq Declines World Cup Qualifier Against Palestine, Emphasizing Fairness Concerns

Iraq has rejected a proposal to play Palestine in a World Cup qualifier either in Jordan or near Jerusalem. The IFA has requested FIFA to change the venue citing integrity concerns regarding competition. Palestine, currently at the bottom of Group B, expressed disappointment over Iraq’s unilateral decision, emphasizing their ongoing struggle for the right to host matches at home.

Iraq has declined to play its World Cup qualifier against Palestine, which was proposed for Jordan’s capital, Amman, or just outside Jerusalem. Iraq’s Football Association (IFA) rejected a Palestinian suggestion for the match to be held in Palestinian territories and requested that FIFA relocate the game to another neutral venue, citing concerns about the integrity of competition in their group. This decision raises questions about fairness, as Iraq, Jordan, and Palestine are all competing closely in Group B.

Palestine had hoped to host Iraq at the Faisal Al-Husseini International Stadium in Al-Ram, with the Palestine Football Association (PFA) stating that FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) reviewed the venue and deemed it suitable. However, the IFA’s decision came without prior consultation with the PFA. The IFA emphasized its wish to support Palestinian sports but ultimately cited the absence of VAR technology at the venue as a determining factor for their decision.

Palestine currently sits at the bottom of Group B with three points, having struggled in previous matches, while Jordan’s standing closely follows Iraq’s. Iraq, in second place, is vying for a top-two finish to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, while Palestine and Jordan have never qualified for World Cup finals, with Iraq having made a single appearance in 1986.

In summary, Iraq’s refusal to play against Palestine in the proposed venues has sparked significant controversy regarding the integrity of group competition. The IFA’s decision to decline the match in both Jordan and Jerusalem due to concerns about technology and fairness has left Palestine disappointed. Moreover, the outcome remains crucial as both nations aim for a breakthrough in World Cup qualification.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com