Bassem Qassem: We could have recorded a historic result but the important thing is the three points

Al Zawraa's coach Basim Qassem and defender Ali Adnan spoke after the important 1-0 victory over Al Quwa Al Jawiya in the top match of the seventh round of the Iraq Stars League at Karbalaa International Stadium.

The win lifted Al Zawraa to 15 points, temporarily placing the team at the top of the table, in a match that saw an early red card for the Falcons and a clear advantage for Al Zawraa throughout 90 minutes.

Bassem Qassem said in the press conference after the match: "Thank God for the important win. My players executed all the instructions and we delivered a performance worthy of the name Al Zawraa."

Ali Adnan stated: "From the first minute, we were the better side. We dominated and created many chances, and after the red card in the 12th minute, the match opened up for us. To be honest, Al Quwa Al Jawiya were lucky today; we could have scored a historic result but we missed a lot of clear chances."

The coach stated: "Winning against a big team like Al Quwa Al Jawiya and under these circumstances gives us a significant morale boost. We are now at the top with 15 points, and this did not come from nowhere, but from continuous work. However, we have a long journey ahead and we do not want to get carried away by the euphoria."

Ali Adnan concluded: "I congratulate the players on their spirit and commitment. The fans were number one today in Karbalaa, and I dedicate this victory to them. We will close the chapter on the clásico and start thinking about the next match."

Al Zawraa defender and national team captain Ali Adnan stated: "Air Force matches are always difficult even if you play with ten players. We entered with high focus and a winning mentality only."

He added: "We benefited from the numerical advantage, but the most important thing is that we did not concede any goals. This reflects the discipline of the back line. We played a men's match from the first minute to the last minute."

Hiran Ahmed's goal came at a crucial time, providing relief for the team. "We could have increased our tally, but the important thing is the three points. Now we are at the top, and we must maintain it."

Ali Adnan concluded: "We dedicate the victory to the Al Zawraa fans who supported us even though the match was outside Baghdad. This victory is a new responsibility for us."

With this victory, Al Zawraa continues its strong start this season, relying on the strongest attack in the league and solid defensive strength that was clearly evident in the clásico.

Al Quwa Al Jawiya finds itself in a new spiral after its tally stagnates at 7 points in 11th place, needing a quick review before the upcoming rounds.