Iraqi Footballer Faces Lengthy Ban,Threatening World Cup Qualification
Kanchanaburi,Thailand – Iraqi national team player Mohanad ali is facing a potential lengthy ban from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) following a violent incident during the 51st King’s Cup match against Thailand. The incident, involving a challenge on Thai playmaker Chanathip Songkrasin resulting in injury, has drawn scrutiny and could jeopardize Ali’s participation in Iraq‘s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The King’s Cup final, recognized as a FIFA International ‘A’ Match, requires detailed reporting of all incidents to both FIFA and AFC for review. Chamal Al-charif, a member of the Iraqi delegation, confirmed the match’s official status and the subsequent reporting requirements.
FIFA and AFC disciplinary committees have the authority to impose additional penalties, including suspensions extending to future matches, for violent conduct or unsportsmanlike behaviour. Should Ali be found guilty, he risks missing Iraq’s fourth-round 2026 World Cup qualifiers scheduled for October.
Iraq is grouped with Saudi Arabia and Indonesia in the qualifying stage, with the group winner automatically advancing to the final round of World Cup competition. Ali’s potential absence would be a notable blow to the team’s chances of progressing.
