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FIFA in its statement released on Thursday has confirmed that they have lifted the ban from Iraqi Football Association. However, it would be provisional and has many conditions put on the association before the Sunday's World Cup qualifier match. The match had been in doubt after FIFA announced on Monday they were suspending the reigning Asian champions in response to their government's decision to dissolve their National Olympic Committee.
The FIFA statement says that the letter of assurance is a positive step; however it does not fully answer all of FIFA's concerns about the governmental attempts to control the Iraqi federations and the Iraqi National Olympic Committee. Australia seems to be happier with the decision, which according to an estimate had stood to lose about $3 million (Australian) (1.45 million pounds) in ticket sales and sponsorship if the match was cancelled, welcomed the announcement the game was back on.
