Demiral, Jasim punch ticket to 2026 FIFA World Cup

Roshn Saudi League stars Merih Demiral and Ali Jasim can look forward to an exciting summer after both Turkiye and Iraq booked spots at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Demiral’s Turkiye came through their final UEFA qualification play-off against Kosovo on Tuesday night, the 1-0 win meaning the hugely popular Al Ahli star, who sat out the match through injury, will most likely compete in his first global finals when the tournament in North America kicks off in June.

Then, early on Wednesday, Al Najmah starlet Ali Jasim featured in Iraq’s momentous 2-1 victory against Bolivia in the Intercontinental Play-offs decider in Mexico. The win confirmed Iraq's return to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years.

In North America, Iraq will contest a Group I involving France and Senegal - Norway make up the pool - meaning Jasim could face a number of fellow RSL representatives on football’s grandest stage.

Turkiye, meanwhile, go into Group D alongside co-hosts United States, Paraguay and Australia.