Iraq opened their AFC Futsal Asian Cup™ Indonesia 2026 qualifying campaign in sensational style, defeating Pakistan 8-1 in Group D on Saturday. The dominant performance showcased Iraq’s attacking firepower as they took firm control of their path to the Finals.
Iraq will next face Chinese Taipei on Monday, while Pakistan will aim to regain form against Saudi Arabia in their second group match.
Bright Start but Early Breakthrough for Iraq
Pakistan began the match positively, nearly taking the lead in the opening minute when Yousaf Ahmad’s effort drifted just wide of the post. However, Iraq quickly responded, with Tareq Zeyad Sulaiman forcing an early save from Pakistan’s Muhammad Tahir.
Moments later, Haedr Al Ogaili set up Ghaith Arab, who stretched to score Iraq’s opener, giving the West Asian side the momentum.
Iraq Takes Full Control
Iraq doubled their advantage in the eighth minute when Zeyad Sulaiman regained possession and linked up with Al Ogaili, whose assist allowed Salim Al Husaynat to score easily.
Pakistan nearly found a way back through a swift counterattack, but Iraq goalkeeper Hussein Ahmed Naser reacted brilliantly to preserve the lead.
As the first half drew to a close, Salim Al Darraji punished Pakistan’s defensive lapse, driving home a powerful strike to make it 3-0 at halftime.
Second Half Dominance
After the break, Iraq continued their relentless pressure. In the 28th minute, Al Darraji outpaced his defender on the left flank and fired a stunning shot into the top corner for his second of the match.
Two minutes later, Al Husaynat scored again, volleying home from a corner to make it 5-0. Mustafa Ihsan Al Bayati added a sixth almost immediately, as Iraq ran riot.
Pakistan finally found a consolation goal in the 34th minute through Muhammad Ali Khan, but Iraq quickly restored their dominance with goals from Al Darraji and Harith Saad Al Obaidi, sealing an emphatic 8-1 victory.
