Iraq coach criticizes AFC for being too biased towards Saudi Arabia

Iraq head coach Graham Arnold said the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) had created unfair advantages to "clear the way" for Saudi Arabia to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Coach Graham Arnold is outraged by the advantages that the AFC gives to Saudi Arabia - Photo: AFP

These harsh statements were made right after the 0-0 draw between Iraq and Saudi Arabia in the early morning of October 15.

This result was enough to help Saudi Arabia officially win a ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, Iraq had to enter the risky fifth stage of the play-off round to win the last half of Asia's spots.

In the post-match press conference, coach Graham Arnold could not hide his displeasure when he said that Saudi Arabia and Qatar (who also qualified in Group A) had too big an advantage when hosting the 4th qualifying round.

"The teams that had five days off have all qualified. And this is the first time in my life I have seen a system like this," the Australian coach told the media.

“When I was in Australia, we were told the play-offs would be played at a neutral venue. But what happened was completely different and it was disappointing,” he added.

According to him, playing at home, having the support of a large number of fans and especially having more rest time than their opponents has created an unfair advantage.

Despite not being able to win a direct ticket, the door to the 2026 World Cup is not completely closed for the Iraqi team. Accordingly, coach Graham Arnold and his team will have to face the UAE in the next phase 5 play-off match to compete for a place in the intercontinental play-off round next November.

"Starting today, we have to forget about this match and focus on the next two matches with the UAE. We have to prepare well and I hope the players will be more ready," Mr. Arnold called on the whole team.

The 8 official representatives of Asia attending the 2026 World Cup are: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Japan, South Korea, Iran, Uzbekistan, Jordan and Australia.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/hlv-tuyen-iraq-chi-trich-afc-vi-qua-thien-vi-saudi-arabia-2025101508491559.htm