Al-Masafi vs. Al Bahri – Iraq Premier Division, 21 May 2026

Al-Masafi edged out Al Bahri 2-1 in a closely contested Iraq Premier Division fixture at the Al-Masafi Stadium. The home side came from behind to secure three vital points, moving them into the upper half of the league table.

Match Overview

Under the lights on 21 May 2026, Al-Masafi started nervously but grew into the game. Al Bahri took a shock lead midway through the first half, but the hosts responded with two well‑taken goals either side of the interval to claim the win.

Key Moments

• 32nd minute: Al Bahri opened the scoring when striker Ali Hussein latched onto a through ball and slotted past the keeper.
• 41st minute: Al-Masafi equalised – a sweeping counter‑attack finished by winger Hassan Jassim.
• 63rd minute: The winner came from a set piece: defender Ahmed Khalaf headed in a corner.

Tactical Story

Al-Masafi deployed a 4-3-3 that initially struggled against Al Bahri’s compact 5-4-1 shape. After conceding, the home side shifted to a more direct style, utilising wide crosses. The game became physical in the second half, with both sides registering multiple fouls. Al-Masafi’s midfield duo of Haider Mohsin and Mustafa Salman eventually gained control in the final half‑hour.

Standout Players

• Hassan Jassim (Al-Masafi): Scored the equaliser and created several chances with his dribbling.
• Ali Hussein (Al Bahri): Took his goal well and was a threat throughout.

Season Impact

Al-Masafi climb to 6th in the Iraq Premier Division, while Al Bahri remain 14th, still looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone. The victory continues Al-Masafi’s good recent form, and they will hope to push for a top‑four finish.