Iraq Stars League opens 2026–27 season with two opening-day matches

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraq Stars League kicked off its 2026–27 season on Friday with two matches played in Baghdad and Maysan. At Zorav Sports Arena in Baghdad, Naftet beat Karkh 2-0 to claim the first victory of the new campaign. Brazilian forward Kiki Bonfim scored twice in the first half, finding the net in the 12th and 22nd minutes to give Naftet a lead it held through the second half. Naftet finished the match with 10 men after Sammy Hien received a second yellow card in the 49th minute and was sent off. In the other opener at Maysan Olympic Stadium, Naftet Maysan and Jolan played out a goalless draw. The result could have gone Jolan's way late in the game when Youssef Fawzi stepped up for a penalty in the 89th minute, but Maysan goalkeeper Ali Khalid saved the effort to preserve the point. The opening round produced a win, a draw and a missed penalty, setting an early tone for the season. League standings and fixtures have yet to be confirmed by the Iraqi Football Association.