Al Shorta opened their AFC Champions League Elite campaign with a 1-1 home draw against Qatari heavyweights Al-Sadd on September 16, 2025. The Iraqi champions will view this as a point gained against one of the group favorites, displaying grit and organization to earn a respectable result in their first Elite outing. Al-Sadd, boasting several international stars, controlled possession for large periods and likely took the lead through a moment of individual brilliance. Al Shorta, however, refused to be overawed and grew into the game, finding a deserved equalizer in the second half through a set-piece or a determined team move. The final whistle brought applause from the home fans, who saw their team match one of Asia's best and lay a solid foundation for the challenges ahead in a tough group.