Iraq Premier League – Al Yaqaza Edges Degla Al Jameaa 52–51 in Thriller

Match Overview

In a defensive slugfest on 22 May 2026, Al Yaqaza held off Degla Al Jameaa 52–51 in an Iraq Premier League contest that came down to the final possession. The home team snatched victory with a last-second defensive stop, improving their record in closely contested games this season.

First Half: Low-Scoring Grind

Neither team could find offensive rhythm in the opening two quarters. Al Yaqaza led 13–11 after the first period, relying on interior scoring from centre Ali Hussein. Degla Al Jameaa responded with a 16–13 second quarter, taking a 27–26 lead into halftime. Turnovers plagued both sides, with a combined 19 in the first half.

Second Half: Every Possession Matters

The third quarter saw defence continue to dominate. Al Yaqaza’s zone forced Degla into difficult jump shots, while the visitors countered by collapsing the paint. The score was tied at 40–40 entering the fourth. In the final frame, Al Yaqaza guard Mustafa Ahmed hit two critical three-pointers to give his team a 50–45 advantage with three minutes left. But Degla clawed back with a 6–0 run, taking a 51–50 lead on a Hasan Ali jumper with 45 seconds to go.

Decisive Moments

Al Yaqaza called timeout and ran a set play that freed Ahmed for a mid-range jumper. He converted with 18 seconds left, putting the home side up 52–51. Degla had one final chance, but their inbound pass was deflected by Al Yaqaza’s defence, forcing a desperation heave that missed at the buzzer.

Key Contributors

• Mustafa Ahmed (Al Yaqaza): 14 points, including the game-winning basket. His clutch shooting in the fourth quarter was pivotal.
• Ali Hussein (Al Yaqaza): 10 points and 11 rebounds, providing a steady presence in the paint.
• Hasan Ali (Degla Al Jameaa): 12 points and 5 assists, nearly leading his team to a come-from-behind win.

League Context

The victory lifts Al Yaqaza to 6–8 in the Iraq Premier League standings, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Degla Al Jameaa drops to 5–9 but remains within striking distance of the top six. Matches between these two have often been close, and this result adds another chapter to their developing rivalry.