Kadhimiya SC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Al Hussein in the Iraq Premier Division on 21 September 2026. A late second-half goal was enough to separate the two sides in a tense, physical encounter that produced few clear-cut chances. The win lifts Kadhimiya up the standings, while Al Hussein are left to rue a missed opportunity to take something from the game.

Match Overview

Played at a packed stadium in Baghdad, the match was a classic Iraqi Premier Division battle: tight marking, quick transitions, and plenty of midfield duels. Kadhimiya SC lined up in a 4-4-2, while Al Hussein opted for a 4-2-3-1 with a focus on counter-attacking through their wingers. The first half was largely uneventful, with both defences on top and neither goalkeeper seriously tested.

Key Moments

• 18’ – Al Hussein chance: A rasping drive from 25 yards whistles just over the crossbar.
• 41’ – Kadhimiya chance: A header from a corner is cleared off the line by a defender.
• 58’ – Penalty appeal: Al Hussein players appeal for a handball, but the referee waves play on.
• 78’ – Kadhimiya goal: Substitute Ali Hassan latches onto a loose ball inside the box and fires low past the goalkeeper.
• 90+3’ – Late pressure: Al Hussein send everyone forward, but Kadhimiya’s defence holds firm.

Tactical Story

Kadhimiya’s plan was clear: stay compact, win the second balls, and use set-pieces to create danger. Al Hussein saw more of the ball (56% possession) but struggled to break down a disciplined back four. The decisive moment came when Kadhimiya’s manager brought on Ali Hassan, whose fresh legs and sharp movement in the box made the difference. Al Hussein pushed bodies forward late on, but their final ball lacked quality.

Standout Performers

Ali Hassan was the hero, scoring the only goal just 12 minutes after coming on. Kadhimiya’s goalkeeper Mustafa Kadhim made two crucial saves in the final 10 minutes to preserve the clean sheet. Centre-back Haider Abdul-Rahman was a rock at the back, winning every aerial duel. For Al Hussein, midfielder Hussein Ali was their most creative outlet, but he lacked support in the final third.

What It Means for the Table

The three points move Kadhimiya SC into a more comfortable position in the Iraq Premier Division standings, keeping them in touch with the top half. Al Hussein remain in the lower reaches and will be concerned about their lack of goals. With the season still young, both teams have time to improve, but Kadhimiya will take confidence from this gritty win, while Al Hussein must find a way to turn possession into points.