In a thrilling showdown, “Iraq proud of this” became the chant echoing from stadiums and living rooms across the country. The Iraqi football club Duhok clinched their first-ever Gulf Clubs Cup title with a dramatic 2-1 win over Kuwait’s Al Qadsia. The match took place on Duhok’s home ground in front of a roaring crowd that never stopped believing.
The game started cautiously, with both teams testing each other in the midfield. Duhok, however, broke the deadlock in the 66th minute. Seibaneed Akeed fired home a powerful strike that sent the home fans into a frenzy. Despite the pressure, Al Qadsia responded quickly. Just four minutes later, Mohammad Saleh equalized for the Kuwaiti side, silencing the crowd momentarily.
But Duhok refused to give in. They stayed composed and organized, waiting for the right moment to strike. As the clock ticked past the 90-minute mark, the game looked destined for extra time. However, Duhok’s determination paid off deep into stoppage time.
In the 93rd minute, Marlon, a key figure in Duhok’s lineup, rose high to meet a cross. His precise header found the back of the net and reignited the crowd’s roar. The referee added over 13 minutes of stoppage time, but Duhok held firm. Their defenders blocked every shot and cleared every threat.
The final whistle marked a historic moment. Duhok had not only won their first Gulf Clubs Cup title, but they also became the first Iraqi club to claim the trophy. The fans, coaches, and players all echoed the same phrase: “Iraq proud of this.”
The first leg of the final ended in a goalless draw in Kuwait on April 8. That result set the stage for this electrifying second leg in Duhok. With the home advantage and unbreakable spirit, Duhok made history.
This victory means more than a trophy. It symbolizes resilience, passion, and pride. “Iraq proud of this” now stands as a testament to what Iraqi football can achieve.
