Match Report: Duhok SC 1–2 Al-Kahraba Club — Iraq Stars League

Al-Kahraba Club secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Duhok SC in an Iraq Stars League encounter on May 27, 2026. The match, played at a neutral venue with a late 23:00 kickoff, saw the visitors come from behind to claim all three points and strengthen their mid-table position.

Match Overview

Duhok SC started brightly and took an early lead through a well-worked move in the first half. However, Al-Kahraba responded with resilience, equalising before half-time and then completing the turnaround with a second-half winner. The result leaves Duhok still searching for consistency, while Al-Kahraba climb into the top half of the Iraq Stars League standings.

Key Moments

• 12’ – Duhok strike first: A sharp counter-attack caught the Al-Kahraba defence off guard, with the home side’s striker finishing calmly to make it 1–0.
• 35’ – Al-Kahraba equalise: A set piece caused chaos in the Duhok box, and the ball fell kindly for an Al-Kahraba midfielder to slot home from close range.
• 68’ – Decisive second goal: Al-Kahraba’s winger cut inside from the right and curled a shot into the far corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance.
• 88’ – Duhok push for equaliser: The hosts threw men forward but were denied by a series of saves from Al-Kahraba’s goalkeeper.

Tactical Story

Duhok SC attempted to control the game through possession in the first 30 minutes, but Al-Kahraba’s compact defensive shape forced them wide. Once the visitors equalised, they grew in confidence and pressed higher, disrupting Duhok’s build-up play. The second half saw Al-Kahraba sit deeper after taking the lead, inviting pressure but remaining organised. Duhok lacked creativity in the final third and were unable to break down a well-drilled backline.

Standout Players

• Al-Kahraba’s match-winner (No. 10): Scored the crucial second goal and was a constant threat on the counter.
• Al-Kahraba goalkeeper: Made several vital saves in the closing stages to preserve the lead.
• Duhok’s centre‑forward: Took his goal well but was isolated for long periods.

Table Impact

With this win, Al-Kahraba move up to 7th in the Iraq Stars League table, now on 38 points from 25 matches. Duhok SC remain in 12th position with 30 points, seven points clear of the relegation zone but needing to improve their home form. The result also tightens the mid-table battle, with only three points separating Al-Kahraba from the top six.