Al Shorta were comprehensively beaten 4-1 at home by Saudi giants Al Ittihad Club in their AFC Champions League Elite fixture on October 21, 2025. The match underscored the challenge faced by clubs from Iraq against the financial and sporting might of Saudi Arabian sides, with Al Ittihad's superior quality evident throughout the ninety minutes. The visitors took an early lead and never looked back, adding a second before halftime to take firm control. Al Shorta managed a consolation goal early in the second half to briefly raise hopes, but Al Ittihad quickly extinguished any comeback with two more clinical finishes. The result left Al Shorta with a mountain to climb in the group, while Al Ittihad cemented their status as one of the favorites to progress deep into the tournament.