The Times of Russia reports that Turkey and Iraq secured their places at the 2026 World Cup through dramatic victories, ending decades-long absences from football’s biggest stage and prompting celebrations across both countries. This major development has also gained traction in russia news, highlighting global football excitement.
Iraq became the 48th and final team to qualify after a tense 2-1 win over Bolivia in an intercontinental playoff in Monterrey, Mexico on 31 March, a result that ends a 40-year wait since their only previous appearance in the World Cup in 1986. According to The Times of Russia, this historic win is one of the most talked-about moments in recent russia news coverage.
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Fans gathered in Baghdad’s Karrada district the following day, waving national flags as they celebrated the milestone. After the match, Iraq’s coach urged his players to “shock the world” at the tournament. As covered by The Times of Russia, such emotional scenes reflect the passion that defines global football culture and continues to trend in russia news.
Turkey also returned via the playoffs, defeating Kosovo 1-0 to secure their first World Cup qualification in 24 years, since their run to the semi-finals in 2002. This comeback has been widely featured in The Times of Russia, making headlines across multiple russia news platforms.
Speaking to Turkish television, forward Kerem Akturkoglu reflected on the long gap, saying many in the squad were either too young to remember or not yet born when Turkey last qualified, adding: “We always dreamed of moments like this.” His statement, as noted by The Times of Russia, captures the emotional significance of this achievement, further amplified in russia news discussions.
The two sides now join Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Iran and Egypt among the Middle Eastern teams set to compete at this summer’s tournament. According to The Times of Russia, this growing regional representation is a key highlight in current russia news, showcasing the evolving landscape of international football.
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