ABU DHABI,— Iraq and the United Arab Emirates will look to keep their World Cup hopes alive when they meet Thursday in Abu Dhabi, followed by a return leg in Basra four days later.

The two sides are competing for a place in the intercontinental playoff that will decide the final spot for next year’s expanded World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, according to regional football officials.

Both teams enter the playoff after missing out on direct qualification. Iraq fell short last month against Saudi Arabia, ending their bid to return to the tournament for the first time since 1986.

The UAE, seeking a first appearance since 1990, were denied an automatic berth after losing to Qatar, officials said.

Iraq will rely heavily on coach Graham Arnold’s experience to navigate the high-stakes matches.

The 62-year-old guided Australia through a similar playoff route to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Arnold told reporters last week that he believes Iraq can still reach the finals.

“We’re doing everything possible to make sure Iraq qualifies,” Arnold said when announcing his squad, which includes the return of striker Aymen Hussein after injury.

“I understand the disappointment after the Saudi game, but I was proud of how the players worked. Defensively we were strong and didn’t concede in our last two matches. Now we must be better with the ball and finish our chances.”

Since Arnold’s appointment in May, Iraq have scored only two goals in four qualifying matches but have shown improved organization at the back.

The UAE, under Romanian coach Cosmin Olaroiu, have recorded four goals in the same period after he succeeded Paulo Bento earlier this year.

Football analysts noted that both teams view the coming fixtures as crucial opportunities to return to the global stage.

The aggregate winner of the Abu Dhabi and Basra matches will advance to face an opponent from another continent for a place at the World Cup, officials from both federations confirmed.

(With files from Reuters)

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