Al-Shorta begin their journey in the AFC Champions League 2 against Al-Sib Omani

Al-Shorta are set to kick off their campaign in the AFC Champions League 2 when they play their first match in the group stage on Wednesday, September 16, at Al-Zawraa Stadium in Baghdad at 9:15 PM Baghdad time.

The 'Green Violin' sees this match as an unmissable opportunity for a strong start in front of their fans, especially after the acceptable performance the team has been delivering recently.

Al-Shorta approach the match with a clear mindset: victory is the only option. The coaching staff and players know that a strong start in the Asian competitions determines the entire course of the group, and securing three points at home provides a huge morale boost for the upcoming rounds.

The team currently sits sixth in the domestic league with 12 points, having achieved 3 wins, 3 draws, and 1 defeat. This position is not befitting of the title holder, but at the same time, it reflects a state of relative stability in performance.

In their latest match, Al-Shorta looked more organized defensively and more effective in attack compared to the beginning of the season, which the coaching staff is heavily relying on.

The match taking place in Baghdad in front of Al-Shorta's large fanbase is a double-edged sword. Al-Zawraa Stadium, which has become accustomed to Al-Shorta's Asian nights, will be full, and the fans are waiting for a performance worthy of the name "the Green Lyre" as the most stable Iraqi club in continental competitions in recent years.

On the other hand, the Omani team enters the match with the ambition of achieving a positive result at the very least against the champions of Iraq.

The team from the Sultanate of Oman is aware of the difficulty of playing in Baghdad, but at the same time, they will seek to exploit any defensive gaps and snatch a goal that could unsettle the home side's plans.

Reports from the Omani camp suggest that the team relies on tactical discipline and quick transitions, a style that could trouble Al-Shorta if not handled carefully.