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  "path": "/news/hard-numbers/hard-number-2026-world-cup-debuts",
  "publishedAt": "2026-04-01T15:51:35.000Z",
  "site": "https://www.gzeromedia.com",
  "tags": [
    "Iraq",
    "World cup",
    "40 years",
    "declared a national holiday"
  ],
  "textContent": "\n\n\n\nForty-eight countries have officially qualified for the World Cup, after Iraq booked the final spot with its win against Bolivia on Tuesday. It’s the first time Iraq will be competing in the tournament in 40 years. The Democratic Republic of Congo, too, is set to participate for the first time in years (52 to be exact!), and even declared a national holiday today to celebrate.",
  "title": "Hard number: 2026 World Cup debuts"
}