Al Karkh player Ali Qassem expressed his deep regret after his team's loss to Al-Karma, noting that the early red card had a significant impact on the team's performance on the field and imposed a difficult reality that the players could not overcome despite continuous attempts.

Qassem said in media statements after the match:

"Honestly, we were planning to enter the match better, but the red card in the early minutes ruined everything. The team had to change its style from attacking to defending, and this directly affected us, especially against a team like Al-Karma that has strong players."

He added: "Despite the numerical disadvantage, we tried to cover spaces and close the flanks, but the early goal confused us even more. After the goal, the match became a physical and tactical battle, and we gave everything we could, but luck was not on our side."

He explained: "Today's loss is painful, but we have time to make up for it. All the players feel the responsibility, and the coaching staff is fully supportive. Our focus now will be on the upcoming matches to improve our position and avoid any pressures at the end of the season."