PM Barzani: All-Kurdish Final a 'Great Pride'
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Highlighting a major sporting achievement for the Kurdistan Region, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has extended his congratulations to the Duhok SC and Zakho SC football clubs for securing their places in the final of the Iraq Cup, calling the accomplishment a source of “great pride for all the people of Kurdistan.”
In a message posted on the social network X, the Prime Minister celebrated the occasion of two teams from the region reaching the final of the national Iraqi tournament.
"On the occasion of reaching the final of the Iraq Cup, we extend our warmest congratulations to both the Duhok and Zakho football clubs," Prime Minister Barzani wrote.
He emphasized the broader significance of the victory, stating, "This is a great achievement that showcases the ability and talent of our youth and is a great pride for all the people of Kurdistan."
Concluding his message of support for both teams, the Prime Minister added, "I wish you success."
The public congratulations from Prime Minister Masrour Barzani elevates a significant sporting moment into an event of regional and political importance. By personally addressing the success of the Duhok and Zakho clubs, the Prime Minister frames their athletic achievement as a collective victory for the entire Kurdistan Region.
His choice of words is deliberate. Describing the all-Kurdish final as a showcase for the "ability and talent of our youth" serves to highlight the potential of the younger generation within the Kurdistan Region. Furthermore, calling it a "great pride for all the people of Kurdistan" is a powerful, unifying message that transcends club rivalries and reinforces a sense of shared regional identity on a national stage.
The statement positions the clubs' success not merely as a sports story, but as a demonstration of the Kurdistan Region's capacity to compete and excel within the wider Iraqi framework. It is a moment of soft power, where athletic prowess becomes a symbol of regional competence and a source of national pride.
Duhok SC won against Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya 3-1 in the semi-final of the Iraq Cup and reached the final.
Likewise, Zakho SC won against Al-Shorta on penalties and reached the cup final. The final match between Zakho and Duhok is scheduled to take place at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, July 16, 2027, at Al-Shaab Stadium in Baghdad.
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