Al Gharraf 0–2 Naft Missan | Iraq Stars League | 2 June 2026

A disciplined defensive performance and two clinical finishes earned Naft Missan a valuable 2–0 away victory over Al Gharraf at the Al Gharraf Stadium on Tuesday night. The result lifted Naft Missan into mid-table security, while leaving Al Gharraf still searching for consistency in the Iraq Stars League.

Match Overview

Naft Missan entered the contest having struggled for goals in recent weeks, but they produced a ruthlessly efficient display on the counter-attack. Al Gharraf dominated possession for long spells but lacked the cutting edge to break down a well-organised visiting backline. The first half remained goalless, with both sides cancelling each other out in midfield.

Key Moments

• 49th minute: Naft Missan broke the deadlock when a swift move down the right wing ended with striker Hussein Ali slotting home from close range after a deflected cross.
• 73rd minute: The visitors doubled their lead through a stunning long-range strike from Ahmed Jabbar, who curled the ball into the top corner from 25 metres.
• 88th minute: Al Gharraf had a goal disallowed for offside after a VAR review, ending any hopes of a late comeback.

Tactical Story

Al Gharraf's approach was built around controlling the centre of the pitch, but they struggled to create clear chances against Naft Missan's compact 4-4-2 defensive block. Naft Missan, coached by Karim Younis, relied on quick transitions and exploited the spaces left by Al Gharraf's advancing full-backs. Goalkeeper Ali Yassin made several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet, including a one-on-one stop in the 65th minute.

Standings Impact

The win moves Naft Missan to 28 points, climbing to 10th place in the Iraq Stars League table. Al Gharraf remain on 24 points, now just three points above the relegation zone, and will need to address their lack of firepower in upcoming fixtures.