Iraq Targets FIFA Ranking Rise in Venezuela Friendly

Iraq's national football team is set to face Venezuela in a match that could improve the country's position in the FIFA world rankings. Iraq currently sits 56th in the live FIFA rankings following a draw against Spain. A win against Venezuela could lift the team to around 53rd place with 1456.31 points, according to scenario projections. The ranking would hold even if Qatar and Romania win their respective matches, and if Chile loses to Portugal. Iraq could potentially reach 52nd place should Peru lose to Haiti. A draw would likely place Iraq at 55th, though results from Qatar and Romania could still leave the team at 56th. A loss would probably see Iraq drop from its current position, though other match outcomes could alter that scenario. The official FIFA rankings are scheduled for release on June 10.