The GCC Champions League match between Al-Ain FC and Zakho SC on December 23, 2025, ended in a narrow 1-0 away victory for Zakho SC. This result provided a crucial three points for the visiting side in the group stage, while leaving the home team with a disappointing start to their campaign. The decisive moment came in the second half when Zakho SC capitalized on a defensive lapse from Al-Ain to score the game's only goal. Al-Ain pushed for an equalizer but were repeatedly frustrated by a resolute Zakho defense and some wayward finishing in the final third. The match result was a significant upset, with Zakho securing a vital away win that boosted their position in the early league table standings. The home manager lamented his team's lack of cutting edge, while the Zakho coach praised his squad's discipline and commitment to the game plan. The starting lineups featured Al-Ain's typical attacking formation, but they were unable to break down a compact Zakho SC side that executed a perfect counter-attacking strategy.