Iraq Stars League fifth week to open with four matches on Thursday

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The fifth week of the Iraq Stars League football season opens on Thursday with four matches, starting at 18:45 local time. Mosul and Zakho meet at Franso Hariri Stadium, the venue designated as Mosul's home ground, while Diyala host Kerame at the same kickoff time. At 21:00, Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya play Gharraf at Zakho Stadium, where Al-Quwa have shifted their home matches while Kirkuk-based Karkh continues to face disruption. In the standout fixture of the round at 21:00, Erbil, sitting atop the table, face Karkh, who are bottom on one point. After four rounds, Erbil lead the standings with 10 points. Zakho and Kerame are level on 8 points and separated only by goal difference, placed second and third, while Naft Al-Maysan sit fourth on 7 points. Mosul and Police Club share fifth and sixth places with 6 points each.