At half-time between Bolivia and Iraq I was a bit sad mid the great atmosphere at the BBVA stadium in Monterrey: both teams deserve to be in the World Cup, not least for the great atmosphere the fans created, complemented by many happy Mexicans who just wanted to enjoy the atmosphere of the World Cup.
With 48 teams in the World Cup, the last spots should rather be given to non-European sides with great fans and commitment to their national sides, rather than the entitled and mediocre European sides that qualified in the European play-offs.
But it had to one of the teams, and it turned out to be an entertaining match to find the last qualified to for the World Cup. Iraq took an early lead on a header by the Luton striker Ali Al-Hamadi, and poor defending by the Bolivians. It led to the Bolivians putting pressure on the Iraqis, and following a period of dominance by the quick and technically gifted South Americans, Moises Paniagua equalized on a splendid strike. As the first half ended 1-1, the Bolivian fans had reason to be optimistic, as they were dominating, but in the second half Iraq came out more organised, and soon enough scored on a counter-attack: Aymen Hussein (extraordinary player with a difficult personal history) came ahead of a poorly placed Bolivian defender, bringing joy to the Iraqi fans, many of whom had come over from the USA.
Bolivia attacked an attacked the rest of the match, but despite possession and pressure, never managed to open up a disciplined and committed Iraqi side, who in Mexico qualified for their first World Cup since 1986, in Mexico.
Sad to see the Bolivian exit, but fans took it in good spirit, as the Iraqis were applauded and celebrated. Personally I loved being there, in a beautiful stadium, in the fantastic city of Monterrey, who will be great hosts this World Cup.
This match represented what the World Cup will be about: celebrating, and be sure I will have a soft spot for Iraq as the face France, Senegal and Norway!
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