Injury adds drama as Jordan edge Iraq
Yazen Al-Naimat, Jordan's forward, sent a message to the nation after suffering a knee injury in the Arab Cup 2025 quarterfinal against Iraq in Qatar.
He left the field after 14 minutes following a dribble in the box and was replaced by his teammate Awwad Al-Fakhouri.
Jordan still sealed a 1-0 victory thanks to a 41st-minute penalty converted by Ali Alwan after a handball by Mustafa Saadoun.
Al-Naimat later posted a Snapchat clip saying he's fine, reassuring fans who feared a long-term injury. Jordan had already wrapped up Group C with three wins over Kuwait, UAE, and Egypt.
Impact and context
The win keeps Jordan's progress on track and highlights their solid tournament run.
Report and timing: December 12, 2025, 17:37 local time, by Mohammed Al-Suwaifi.
And now the punchlines: If drama paid the bills, this match would be a blockbuster. Knee injuries heal, but fans' nerves still need a spa day.
Punchline 1: If this knee could talk, it would say, I came for a dribble and left with a standing ovation—and a minor bruise on the ego.
Punchline 2: In football, the only thing quicker than a counter-attack is the doctor pulling out the X-ray. The knee's already booked a return ticket.
