Clear to play at home

The last FIFA council meeting in Bogota, Colombia brought some joy for one Asian country: after 28 years, Iraq can play international matches on home soil. Basra, Erbil and Karbala has been named the towns that spectators can enjoy quality games from its team. 'This is a significant moment in shaping the future of football in Iraq' said AFC president Salman bin Ibrahim al Khalifa. Also past Friday the president of the world football organization mentioned that they received a request for games to be played in the capital as well, but because it 'came very, very late' Baghdad is now on the waiting list.
Unfortunately, the return was not so positive as today Iraq lost to Qatar in Basra sport city stadium in a friendly game. Another attempt, for the first official win after nearly three decades at home, the team will have against Syria next Tuesday at the same venue.