Zakho SC claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Erbil SC in the Iraq Stars League on 22 October 2026, producing a composed second-half display to secure all three points at Zakho International Stadium.

Match overview

The contest carried the extra edge of a regional rivalry and lived up to its billing early on. Zakho started with purpose, pressing high and forcing Erbil into a series of rushed clearances. The home side’s willingness to attack down the flanks created the first clear openings, while Erbil looked to spring forward on the counter through quick transitions in midfield.

After a lively opening period, the game settled into a more tactical rhythm. Zakho continued to dictate possession, but Erbil remained dangerous whenever they won the ball in wide areas. The match was ultimately decided by Zakho’s ability to convert their best spells of pressure into goals and then manage the closing stages with maturity.

Key moments

• 18th minute: Zakho took the lead through Karwan Amin, who cut in from the left and finished low into the far corner after a patient build-up.
• 41st minute: Erbil responded before half-time when Hawre Mahmoud converted from close range following a well-worked move down the right.
• 67th minute: Zakho regained the advantage as Rebin Sabir arrived late in the box to turn home a cross from the byline.
• 84th minute: Erbil pushed men forward in search of an equaliser, but Zakho goalkeeper Dalshad Hassan made a crucial save to preserve the lead.

Tactical story

Zakho set up in a fluid 4-2-3-1 shape, with their wide attackers encouraged to drift inside and create overloads centrally. That approach worked particularly well in the first half, when Erbil’s back line struggled to track runners between the lines. Zakho’s midfield duo also controlled the second balls, allowing the home side to sustain attacks and pin Erbil back for long stretches.

Erbil’s best moments came from direct play. Their 4-4-2 block looked to win possession in midfield and release runners into the channels, and the equaliser was a good example of that strategy. However, after Zakho restored their lead, Erbil were forced to commit more bodies forward, which opened space for the hosts to manage the game through possession and timely fouls in safe areas.

Standout performers

Karwan Amin was a constant threat for Zakho, combining sharp movement with an end product. Rebin Sabir produced the decisive moment and worked tirelessly off the ball. In defence, Zakho’s centre-backs grew stronger as the match wore on, while Dalshad Hassan delivered the kind of late save that proves decisive in tight league fixtures.

For Erbil, Hawre Mahmoud took his goal well and remained a focal point in attack. Their goalkeeper also made several important stops to keep the visitors within touching distance until the final whistle.

What the result means

The win gives Zakho SC a valuable three points and strengthens their position in the upper half of the Iraq Stars League table. It also adds another positive result to their home record and gives the squad momentum heading into the next round of fixtures. For Erbil SC, the defeat is a frustrating one after an encouraging spell before half-time, and they will need to respond quickly in what is already a competitive league campaign.