Rashid Jaber: Al-Zawraa is a Tough Opponent, but We Must Achieve the Three Points

The press conference for the Iraq Clasico between Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya and Al-Zawraa witnessed statements filled with caution and mutual respect, ahead of the anticipated match tomorrow, Wednesday, at the International People’s Stadium as part of the 36th round of the Iraqi Stars League.

Coach Rashid Jaber entered the conference with a calm demeanor but was charged with focus, emphasizing that facing Al-Zawraa cannot be treated like any ordinary match. 

Jaber said: "It's a summit match and not easy, Al-Zawraa is a big and ancient team, and we are looking to achieve a positive result. We have great confidence in ourselves and our players, and the match will be decided by small details."

The coach's words reflect his awareness of the sensitivity of the encounter, especially since Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya is on the verge of clinching the league title. A win tomorrow means an official coronation regardless of the results of Al-Shorta, which doubles the pressure on the Falcons despite their point superiority. 

Jaber indirectly hinted that the match will not be decided by tactics alone but by mental focus and discipline on the field, a message directed to his players to avoid individual mistakes that could cost the team dearly at a critical time.

For his part, goalkeeper Mohammed Saleh spoke with clear pride about the Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya fans, confirming that the Clasico has a special character that does not need any motivational words. 

Saleh said: "The match is beyond any description for the media, and it does not need any motivation for players or coaches, as it is the Iraq Clasico. I am very proud of the Air Force fans, they had a big role this season in every step with us and even in the training units, they know when to attend and when to stay away."

The goalkeeper's statement reveals the special relationship between the players and the fans this season. The Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya fans were present at every station, even in training, and contributed to boosting the team's morale during the long leadership journey.

Saleh wanted to send a veiled thank you message to the fans, reminding them that their balanced presence was an important factor in maintaining the players' focus away from exaggerated media and fan pressure.

The Clasico between Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya and Al-Zawraa usually does not adhere to numerical accounts. Al-Zawraa enters the match in fourth place with 66 points, and its main goal is to secure fourth place and external participation, while the Falcons enter with a historic opportunity to clinch the title two rounds before the end.

But history says that the matches between the two teams are decided by small details: a defensive error, a set-piece, a refereeing decision, or an individual moment from one of the stars. Therefore, Rashid Jaber's statements were consistent with the nature of the match, as he does not want his players to enter with excessive confidence despite the point difference, but with full focus on every minute.