Bassem Qassem: We aim to return with three points against Duhok despite the difficulty of the task

Al Zawraa held a press conference regarding tomorrow's match against Duhok in the ninth round of the Iraqi Premier League, attended by the team's coach Captain Basim Qasim and player Mohamed Sharif.

Coach Basim Qasim spoke at the start of the conference about the importance and difficulty of the match, saying:

"The match tomorrow is important, and we are well aware of the challenge ahead. We aim to perform at the required level. Duhok is a big team and difficult at home, but we are ready."

Qasim added that the team's goal is clear: to return to the top.

"We are working to return to Baghdad with three points and tighten the noose on the leader. We are in second place with 18 points, and a win will bring us closer to Al-Karma, the leader."

The coach revealed the importance of the match ahead of the upcoming Al Khaleej challenge.

"The victory will give us motivation and stability before facing Qatari side Qatar in our first match of the Al Khaleej Clubs Championship. This match is the real rehearsal before the Gulf Championship."

Mohamed Sherif has stated that they prepared well despite the long break and the tough travel.

Mohamed Sherif spoke about the team's preparations for the match.

"We prepared well during the long break, and we hope that the break will not negatively affect our readiness. We worked hard in training and maintained our physical fitness."

Sherif revealed the team's struggles during the journey to Duhok:

"We had a training session as soon as we arrived in Duhok, despite the journey that lasted about seven hours. It was a tiring trip, but the players showed great commitment and eagerness to train right away."

Sherif concluded his remarks by emphasizing the team's goal:

"We are focusing on tomorrow's match, and we look forward to achieving victory and collecting all the points. We know that Duhok is a team with outstanding players and takes advantage of home ground and fans, but we are Al Zawraa and we will fight until the last minute."

The match takes place today, Thursday, October 9, 2026, at 6 PM Baghdad time at Duhok Stadium, where Al Zawraa aims to continue its impressive performances this season and secure a victory that will bring it one step closer to the top of the table, especially since the last encounter between the two teams ended in a 2-2 draw.