Bolivia faced Iraq at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, Mexico, where they were defeated in the playoff as both sides fought for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. This was the final opportunity for both teams to secure a place in the prestigious tournament.
Bolivia were officially eliminated from the World Cup after falling 2-1 to Iraq. They had entered the match after defeating Suriname 2-1 in the playoff semifinals, keeping their hopes alive, but ultimately fell short in their decisive match. Bolivia, who had dreamed of achieving this milestone in a unique opportunity, let it slip away.
It was a unique chance because this edition expanded to 48 teams, opening more spots in the South American qualifiers. Bolivia, who relied on their strategy of playing at high altitude, managed to reach the playoff position but came up just short of making history.
When was the last time Bolivia played in a World Cup?
The last time Bolivia qualified for a World Cup was in 1994, held in the United States. That qualification for the United States 1994 World Cup is considered the greatest achievement in Bolivian soccer history.
Aymen Hussein of Irak heads the ball against Luis Haquin of Bolivia.
Under head coach Xabier Azkargorta and led by iconic players such as Marco Antonio “El Diablo” Etcheverry, Erwin “Platini” Sanchez, and striker Joaquin Botero, Bolivia accomplished what many believed was impossible. The most memorable moment of that campaign was the historic 2-0 victory over Brazil in La Paz, marking the first time Brazil had ever lost a World Cup qualifying match.
How many times have they qualified for the World Cup?
Bolivia have qualified for the World Cup three times in their history: Uruguay 1930, Brazil 1950, and United States 1994. However, there is a key distinction between those appearances, as in 1930 and 1950, Bolivia participated by invitation or due to withdrawals from other South American teams, while their qualification in 1994 was the first and only one earned through the qualifying process on the field.
Bolivia still hold an unfortunate record: they have never won a match or advanced past the first round in a World Cup. In 1930 and 1950, they exited with heavy defeats and without scoring goals. In 1994, while they showed a more competitive level, they drew 0-0 against Korea Republic and lost to Germany 1-0 and Spain 3-1.
