Persib Bandung Player's Contribution Helps Iraq Qualify for 2026 World Cup

Persib Bandung defender Frans Putros contributed to Iraq qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Iraq secured their ticket to the quadrennial tournament after defeating Bolivia 2-1 in the inter-confederation play-off final at Monterrey Stadium, Canada. 

Putros was one of the players selected by coach Graham Arnold for that decisive match.

Against Bolivia, Putros remained on the bench until the final whistle. However, his contributions throughout the qualification phase were crucial to Iraq's journey to the World Cup.

Before joining the squad against Bolivia, Putros played against the Philippines both home and away during the second round of 2026 World Cup Qualification in the Asian zone.

In the third round of Asian zone qualification, Putros was fielded when Iraq faced Oman, Kuwait, and Jordan.

Putros was again played when Iraq met Saudi Arabia in the fourth round of 2026 World Cup Qualification in the Asian zone.

In Iraq's defense, Putros faced stiff competition from players like Merchas Doski, Zaid Tahseen, Rebin Sulaka, and Hussein Ali.

Frans Putros officially signed with Persib Bandung on July 16, 2025, on a one-year contract. The 32-year-old mainstay of the Iraq National Team was brought in from Thai club Port FC. Putros' contract expires on May 31, 2026.

40-Year Long Wait

Iraq returns to the World Cup after a 40-year absence. Nicknamed the Lions of Mesopotamia, the team last qualified for the World Cup in 1986. They were eliminated in the group stage during their debut that year.

Against Bolivia, Iraq took an early lead in the 10th minute through Ali Alhamadi's goal, before Bolivia equalized through Moises Paniagua 28 minutes later. 

Iraq secured victory after halftime through Aymen Hussein's 53rd-minute goal. 

With Iraq's addition, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will send nine representatives to the 2026 World Cup. 

Besides Iraq, the teams include Iran, Japan, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Uzbekistan, and Australia. Jordan and Uzbekistan will make their debut in the tournament.

In the 2026 World Cup, Iraq is drawn in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway, with all matches to be played in the United States. Iraq's opening match is scheduled against Norway on June 16 local time.

The 2026 World Cup will be hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, from June 11 to July 19, 2026.