President Barzani Hails Both Kurdistan's Clubs as Duhok SC Wins Iraq Cup
President Barzani congratulates Duhok and Zakho for reaching the Iraq Cup final, calling it a "victory for Kurdistan." Duhok won the title for the first time after a penalty shootout against Zakho in front of 40,000 fans. Supporters celebrated in the streets.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) — President Masoud Barzani congratulated the Duhok and Zakho football clubs on Saturday, calling their journey to the Iraq Cup final "a victory for Kurdistan" after Duhok clinched the championship for the first time in a historic match.
In a message released on Saturday, President Barzani stated, "I extend my warmest congratulations to both Duhok and Zakho clubs for the victory they have achieved." He added that the presence of both teams in the final "is a matter of appreciation and a victory for Kurdistan."
The final match of the Iraq Football Cup took place on Friday evening at Al-Shaab Stadium, where nearly 40,000 spectators watched the two Kurdish clubs face off. After 90 minutes of regular time and two additional periods of extra time, the score remained level.
The championship was ultimately decided by penalty kicks, with Duhok emerging as the victor to claim the title for the first time. Following the win, fans of the Duhok club flooded the city center, celebrating the momentous victory in the streets.
