Security concerns prevent Al-Ettifaq from traveling to Iraq

In a surprising development affecting the Gulf Club Champions League, Erbil have received an official notice regarding their upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq, which was scheduled to take place tomorrow, Wednesday, at the François Hariri Stadium in the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for the second round of the Gulf competition.

Sources have revealed that the management of Saudi club Al-Ettifaq has informed the relevant authorities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq that the team delegation is unable to travel to Erbil at the scheduled time, despite the travel itinerary requiring the mission to arrive this evening in preparation for the football match.

Sources have clarified that this decision was made based on official directives and recommendations that prioritized the safety of team members and the sports delegation in light of the tensions and security events occurring in the region and the rapid developments. They emphasized that the safety of players and coaching staff represents the top priority at this time.

Reports from within the northern club indicate that the management of Erbil has shown understanding of the circumstances and the position issued by the Saudi side, confirming that the final decision regarding the postponement of the match or rescheduling it falls exclusively within the authority of the Gulf Club Champions League.

Reports confirm that the Erbil administration and coaching staff are continuing to monitor the official directives expected to be issued by the tournament organizing committee in the coming hours regarding the official fate of the match.

Erbil were counting on this match to get back on track after their thrilling 5-4 defeat to Ajman in the opening round.

The Iraqi football representative plays in Group C of the Gulf Club Champions League alongside Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, UAE's Ajman, and Kuwait's Kazma. The regulations state that the top two teams from each group, as well as the two best third-placed teams, will qualify for the Quarter-Final.