Iraq Stages Late Comeback to Hold Kuwait in Intense 2-2 Draw

 

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The Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered another thrilling contest on Thursday as Iraq and Kuwait played to a dramatic 2-2 draw at Basra International Stadium in the seventh round of the third stage.

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Kuwait started the match with high energy, buoyed by their recent success in the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament. Their strong defensive organization and strategic counterattacks paid off when veteran forward Yousef Nasser capitalized on an opportunity in the 39th minute, giving Kuwait a 1-0 edge.

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The second half saw Kuwait continue their tactical approach, eventually reaping further rewards when Nasser struck again in the 70th minute, extending their lead to 2-0. Just when it seemed that Kuwait had secured a crucial victory, Iraq responded with a remarkable late surge. Akam Hashim pulled one back in the 93rd minute, sparking hope among the home supporters. Then, in a breathtaking finish, Ibrahim Bayesh netted the equalizer in the 101st minute, salvaging an important draw for Iraq.

This result places Kuwait at five points in Group B, while Iraq climbs to 12. South Korea tops the group with 15 points, followed closely by Jordan and Iraq, both on 12. Oman holds seven points in fourth place, while Palestine remains at the bottom with three.