On the eve of the anticipated confrontation against the police in the round of 16 of the Iraqi Cup, the coach of Al-Student Club, Captain Bassem Qassem, appeared with confidence and realism in his talk about the difficult match, affirming that his team is ready to present a match worthy of the club's history and the ambitions of its fans, despite acknowledging the strength of the opponent and its technical completeness.

Qassem said in his statements before the match:

"We are playing a match against a big and complete team like the police, the champion of the Iraqi league for five consecutive seasons, but we have confidence and ambition, and our goal is to present a strong match and prove to everyone that Al-Student is still in the heart of the competition."

He added: "Preparations have gone well, despite the short time, and the players know the size of the challenge ahead of them. The police has heavy names on the local and international levels, and is led by a top-level coaching staff under coach Moamen Suleiman, but football does not recognize names alone, but rather effort, discipline, and spirit."

Regarding the team's readiness, Qassem clarified:

"We have young players who are motivated, in addition to significant experience in the team, and we will work to capitalize on our strengths and minimize the danger posed by the police. We believe that the cup is a tournament that differs from the league, and surprises are always possible."

Qassem confirmed that the goal is clear:

"We want to reach the furthest point in the tournament, and we know that the road is difficult, but ambition is legitimate for all teams. Al-Student Club has a great history, and its fans deserve to see it in the highest ranks."

He concluded his talk with a message to the blue student fans:

"I ask our fans to be with us and support the players, as this match needs your full support, and we are confident that we will present something that will make you very happy. We will fight until the last minute."