Final Two Nations Qualify for FIFA World Cup: Suriname's Conquerors Fall at the Last Hurdle

Iraq has secured the 48th and final spot at this summer's FIFA World Cup, defeating Bolivia 2-1. The match, held in Monterrey, Mexico, was the last play-off for the World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iraq makes its return to the World Cup stage after a forty-year absence and will join France, Norway, and Senegal in their group.

Bolivia was responsible for eliminating Suriname in last week's semi-final. Japan, an opponent of the Dutch national team, was the first to qualify for the World Cup last March, quickly followed by New Zealand, Iran, and reigning world champions Argentina. The Netherlands secured their qualification in November with a 4-0 victory over Lithuania.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the second time in its history. The national team triumphed in the intercontinental play-off final in Guadalajara, Mexico, beating Jamaica 1-0 after extra time, thanks to a goal from Burnley defender Axel Tuanzebe.

The Democratic Republic of Congo becomes the tenth African nation to qualify for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Their group stage opponents this summer will be Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. The country's only previous World Cup appearance was in 1974. Competing as Zaire in West Germany, they suffered defeats to Scotland, Yugoslavia, and Brazil, with a goal difference of 0-14.

The upcoming World Cup will feature a record 48 participating nations. The tournament, which kicks off on June 11, will comprise 104 matches.