Basem Qassem: The result was disappointing and we seek to improve in the future

Al-Zawraa's manager Basim Qasim expressed his frustration at the 0-0 draw against Al-Minaa on Saturday evening, in the opening match of the Iraqi Premier League at Al-Zawraa Stadium. He confirmed that his team was closer to winning but paid the price for wasting opportunities.

Team captain Ali Adnan discusses the match details, emphasizing the need to correct mistakes quickly before the next round.

Bassem Qassem said in the press conference after the match:

"To be honest, the result is disappointing. We played at home and in front of our fans, and our only goal was to win and collect the three points. We dominated most of the match and created clear chances, but we did not convert our superiority into goals."

He added: "The first half was fairly even, but in the second half we imposed our character and reached the port's goal several times. Massis Artin's shot in the 88th minute was a certain goal, and goalkeeper Abdul Salim denied us the win."

The coach continued: "The problem we suffered from today is the final touch and calmness in front of goal. We cannot create 4 or 5 chances and not score. This is something we need to address quickly because the league is long and we cannot afford to drop points at home."

Regarding Al-Mina's performance, he said: "I respect Al-Mina and their team is organized and plays with determination. They were not affected by the crowd pressure and defended well, relying on counter-attacks. But we are the ones who bear the responsibility because we did not secure the match when we had the chance."

He concluded: "One point is better than nothing, but it is not our ambition. We will work this week on the psychological, physical, and technical aspects. The next challenge is tougher, and we must come back strong."

For his part, Al-Zawraa player Ali Adnan said:

"Football is like that. When you don't score, you concede, and when you don't take your chances, you pay the price. We were the better team in the second half and pressed, but the ball just wouldn't go in."

He added: "The fans were present and supported us from the beginning to the end and they deserve the win. We apologize to them for this result, and we promise them that the next will be better. This is a point at the beginning of the road and not the end of the world."

Regarding the team's defensive performance, he said: "We kept a clean sheet, and that is a positive thing. Al-Mina is a strong team with fast players. We approached the match seriously and did not give them space, but offensively we lacked decisiveness."

He concluded: "The league is still in its early stages. We have a week to work and correct mistakes. We want to return in the next round and make our fans happy with three points. I have great confidence in the players and our coaching staff."

With this draw, Al-Zawraa begin their league campaign with one point, in a match that showed the team's need for a decisive striker and more effectiveness in front of goal.

Al-Minaa leave Baghdad with an important point that reflects the team's character and organization, confirming that they will be a tough contender this season.