Iraq will fly to Mexico by private plane for their crucial World Cup play-off against Bolivia or Suriname on March 31st, despite the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran that has closed Middle East airspace. Coach Graham Arnold had called for the match to be postponed due to the dangerous travel conditions. The Iraqi Football Association, led by President Adnan Dirjal, confirmed they've secured special arrangements after writing to FIFA.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino directed his secretary general to facilitate the team's departure. Dirjal stated FIFA had been 'co-operative' in helping overcome the 'difficulty of the journey'. The national team will depart at week's end via the private aircraft to face their opponents in Monterrey.