The Iraqi national team officially secured its place in the quarter-finals of the Arab Cup Qatar 2025, after a well-deserved 2-0 victory over Sudan in the match held at Stadium 974 in Doha, as part of the second round.

The goals were scored by player Mohannad Ali "Mimi" in the 81st minute, followed by Amjad Atwan in the 84th minute, in a match officiated by Jordanian referee Adham Mukhadam, as the Lions of Mesopotamia continued their strong performances under the leadership of Australian coach Graham Arnold.

Despite the fatigue that began to show on the players after the Bahrain match, the Iraqi team came out of the Sudan game with a number of important positives.

Mimi once again confirmed that he is the most effective striker in the Iraqi national team squad, proving during the minutes he played that he is the most dangerous player in front of the goal.

Arnold preferred to keep him on the bench at the start of the match to rest him, but as soon as he entered in the 58th minute, Iraq’s offensive shape changed, and the team's threat increased noticeably.

Mimi succeeded in breaking the match’s code by scoring the first goal, and after the match, he received the best player award for his high performance and smart movements inside the penalty area.

The Iraqi team suffered a lot recently from the absence of a ready player in the right-back position, but Arnold found a surprising solution through Sherko Karim.

Although Sherko Karim is primarily specialized as an attacking winger, he delivered a great performance in the right-back position, successfully executing his offensive and defensive duties with solidity.

Also, player Karrar Nabil stood out notably in midfield after Arnold gave him a starting opportunity as a reward for his good performance in the previous match against Bahrain.

Nabil played one of his best matches in the Iraqi national team jersey, managing to control the rhythm, regulate the tempo, and build attacks from the deep.

The match also witnessed the first joint participation of Al-Zawraa duo Akam Hashim and Maytham Jabbar in central defense, with both players delivering an extremely distinguished performance.