Haider Abdulkarim Makes History: Second Iraqi Player to Win the Saudi League

The Iraqi talent Haider Abdulkarim has written his name in the annals of Saudi football after winning the Saudi Roshan League title for the 2025-2026 season with Al-Nassr Club, following a significant 4-1 victory over Damac which officially clinched the title before the end of the season.

With this achievement, Abdulkarim becomes the second Iraqi player to win the Saudi league title, and the first in the modern professional era, following Nashat Akram's achievement with Al-Shabab.

Haider Abdulkarim moved to Al-Nassr from Al-Zawraa this season as part of the club's plan to strengthen its ranks with young talents capable of learning and integrating into a high-competition environment.

Although his participation in the league was limited to just one appearance, his presence on the team's roster allowed him the opportunity to interact with global stars and work within an advanced professional system, which many considered an important step in his future career.

The championship was the culmination of a long season for Al-Nassr, which the team secured with a clear offensive strength, adding Abdulkarim's first league title in his professional career outside Iraq.

Before Haider, Nashat Akram was the only Iraqi to win the Saudi league title. The former midfield star won the championship with Al-Shabab in the 2005-2006 season, during which he also received the award for the best foreign player in the league.

Nashat left a clear mark with Al-Shabab by scoring more than 10 goals in various tournaments and delivered performances that made him one of the best foreign professionals of that period. His achievement remained a challenging benchmark for Iraqi players for nearly 20 years before Haider Abdulkarim broke it with Al-Nassr.

Haider's triumph with Al-Nassr carries more than one significance. Firstly, it restores the presence of the Iraqi player in the Saudi league after years of absence from the podiums. Secondly, it opens the door for new generations to pursue professionalism in a league currently considered the strongest in the Arab and Asian regions.