Iraq's Chief Declares They Were the Better Side After Jordan Elimination in Arab Cup 2025
12 December 2025
Post-match Reflections from Iraq’s Federation Chief
Darjal, president of the Iraqi Football Federation, apologizes after a 1-0 loss to Jordan in the 2025 Arab Cup quarterfinals.
In an official statement, Darjal praised the players and staff, saying: 'We are proud of the level shown; some are first-timers, but you represented your country well. You deserved better, but that’s football.'
He added: 'We have about three and a half months before the world playoffs; stay prepared, disciplined and train hard to chase the World Cup dream after 40 years.'
The Jordanian side advanced to the semifinals, set to face Saudi Arabia, who defeated Palestine 2-1 yesterday.
Punchline 1: If football is a test of patience, Iraq aced the waiting room.
Punchline 2: They say the best defense is a good offense; tonight Iraq showed that apologizing can be a strategic play.
