BAGHDAD: In an exhilarating showdown at Al-Madina Stadium in Baghdad, the host nation, Iraq, emerged as the champions of the 2023 WAFF U-23 Championship by defeating Iran 5-4 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The final had initially ended in a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of play.
Iran took the lead in the 31st minute with a goal from Hossein Goudarzi, igniting hopes of victory for their side. However, just before the first-half whistle, Iraq’s Hussein Abdullah, the tournament’s top scorer with three goals, scored an equalizer, sending the home crowd into wild celebrations.
Neither team could break the deadlock in the second half or during extra time, leading to a tense penalty shootout to determine the champion. Iraq showcased nerves of steel, converting their penalties flawlessly and securing a 5-4 victory over Iran, sparking jubilation among the local supporters.
Iraq’s First Title in WAFF U-23 Championship
This triumph marked Iraq’s first title in the WAFF U-23 Championship, a significant achievement for the host nation. The victory comes a year after Saudi Arabia’s U-23 team clinched the tournament’s crown.
Both Iraq and Iran had advanced to the final following hard-fought wins in the semifinals, which took place on Sunday. The first semifinal between Iran and Jordan ended in a goalless draw, leading to a thrilling penalty shootout that Iran eventually won 4-3.
In the second semifinal, Iraq delighted their passionate home crowd by defeating their Gulf neighbors, Oman, with a narrow 1-0 victory. The decisive moment of the match came in the 52nd minute when Oman’s Nasser Al-Rawahi scored an own goal, securing the win for the host nation.
The WAFF U-23 Championship, organized by the West Asia Football Federation, showcased the talent and skill of young players from the region. As Iraq basks in the glory of their maiden title, they have proven their mettle on home soil and earned the admiration of fans across West Asia.
