Iraq Triumphant: Clinches Top Spot in Group 4 with Crucial Win over Bahrain

Iraq kicked off their Arab Cup campaign with a crucial 2-1 victory over Bahrain at Stadium 974 in Doha, putting them at the top of Group 4 after the first round of matches. The win gives Iraq three points and pole position in their group, while Bahrain sits at the bottom with no points.

The match got heated in the final moments when Bahrain's Ibrahim Al-Khatal received a red card in the 94th minute for a violent tackle on Iraq's Amjad Ali, forcing Bahrain to finish with ten men.

Iraq dominated from the start, controlling possession and creating better chances thanks to strong teamwork across the pitch. The Lions of Mesopotamia converted their early pressure into a goal just 10 minutes in when Ayman Hussein headed home after Bahrain's defense and goalkeeper made costly errors.

Iraq doubled their lead in the 25th minute through Muhannad Ali's strike. The referee initially ruled it out but reversed the decision after checking VAR footage, confirming the goal stood.

Bahrain came alive in the second half as Iraq sat back on their lead. The pressure paid off in the 79th minute when Hisham Al-Sayed pulled one back with a well-placed cross that found the net. The goal sparked late drama and gave Bahrain hope for an equalizer.

But Iraq held firm through the final minutes to secure all three points. The victory puts them in prime position in Group 4, especially after Algeria and Sudan played to a goalless draw in the group's other match. Iraq now leads the standings while building momentum for their remaining group stage fixtures.