Iraq hold off Bolivia to claim final World Cup place

• Graham Arnold’s team defeat La Verde 2-1 to qualify

• They join France, Norway and Senegal in Group I

Iraq became the 48th and final team to qualify for the World Cup on Tuesday, defeating Bolivia 2-1 in an intercontinental playoff in Mexico to seal their first appearance at the finals in 40 years.

Iraq, whose preparations for Tuesday’s playoff had been disrupted by the war in the Middle East, will play in Group I against France, Senegal and Norway.