Bassem Qassem explains reasons for defeat against Al-Shamal

Al Zawraa's coach Basim Qasim made extensive statements following the shocking defeat to Al-Shamal by a goal to nil at Newroz Stadium in Sulaymaniyah during the tenth round of the Iraq Stars League.

Qasim began his remarks by saying: "First, I congratulate Al Khaleej for this victory. They played a great match and were more organized and eager than us. We all bear the loss today as a coaching staff and players, and there are no excuses."

Al Zawraa's coach added: "We entered the match knowing its difficulty; Al-Shamal is a respectable team that relied on defensive organization and counter-attacks. I believe they succeeded in their plan and scored in the 18th minute, after which they closed all avenues."

Sajjad Mohammed Mahdi explained the reasons for the defeat, stating: "Honestly, the team looked clearly exhausted, and while that's not an excuse, it's a reality. We returned just days ago from Doha after a tiring match against Qatar SC in the Gulf Cup and a long, exhausting journey. We tried to rotate the squad, but we were unsuccessful. The mental and physical fatigue was evident in most players, and we lost focus in the final third."

Regarding the criticism directed at him, Sajjad Mohammed Mahdi said: "I accept all criticism with an open heart. I am the primary responsible for the result, and perhaps I did not read the match correctly in the second half. We tried to press and change our style of play, but we did not succeed in breaking down the opponent's defensive block. We will reflect a lot on this match because what is coming is tougher, and we have an important derby against Al-Shamal."

Qasim concluded his remarks with a message to the fans: "I apologize to the loyal Al Zawraa fans who attended and supported us, and I tell them this is a stumble of a horse, the league is still long, and we will return strongly. I promise you that we will correct our course quickly."

In his part, the team's defender Sajjad Mohammed Mahdi spoke with deep regret after the match, saying:

"We delivered a performance that was not up to the required level. Al-Shamal were impressive today. I believe we let down the fans who came from Baghdad to Sulaymaniyah to support us, and that is painful."

Mahdi added: "The goal came early; we should have been more focused. We tried to come back in the second half and pressed hard, but we were not fortunate in front of goal; the ball just wouldn't go in."

Sajjad Mohammed Mahdi has sent a message of apology to the fans: "I apologize on behalf of my teammates to the great Al Zawraa fans. We know they are not satisfied with the result and performance, and we promise you that this loss will be a harsh lesson for us. We will fight in the upcoming match against Al-Shamal to make up for what happened today and bring back smiles to them."