Algeria strike first: a match that reshaped Group D’s narrative

The clash between Algeria and Iraq promised intensity, but it ultimately became a statement of power from the Algerians as they approach the final stretch of the Arab Cup 2025. Although both teams arrived already qualified, the match revealed far more than a formality: it exposed Iraq’s weaknesses, confirmed Algeria’s solidity, and left one question hanging, who is truly ready for the quarter-finals?

From the opening minutes, the match took an unexpected turn. The early red card shown to Hussein Ali left Iraq exposed against an Algeria side that refused to forgive. The match made one thing abundantly clear: the North African side has a plan, identity and enough personality to contend for the title, while Iraq must rebuild their confidence and correct critical mistakes if they want to stay alive in the tournament.

The mistake that changed everything: Iraq collapse with a painful own goal

If anything defined the match, it was Algeria’s ability to capitalize on every detail and Iraq’s fragility in decisive moments. The first blow arrived just before halftime, when Amin Tougai opened the scoring after a VAR review that sparked controversy. But the real disaster struck at the start of the second half.

A seemingly harmless cross turned into tragedy for Iraq when Saad Natiq, in a desperate attempt to clear the ball, sent it into his own net. The own goal not only sealed the 2–0 but shattered the confidence of a team that arrived undefeated and riding high.

That moment summed up the match: Algeria showed determination; Iraq showed confusion.

Algeria shows discipline, pressure and control

The victory was no coincidence. Algeria displayed a brand of football that was organized, physical and ruthless, punishing every Iraqi lapse. With players like Yacine Brahimi, who consistently generated danger from the opening whistle, the Algerians made one thing clear: they don’t just want to advance… they want to dominate.

Even with a two-goal lead, Algeria did not sit back. They maintained pressure, pushed for a third and demonstrated tactical superiority that left Iraq with no answers. If there were any doubts about the defending champions’ strength, this match erased them.

Iraq advance, but hit emotional rock bottom before the quarter-finals

Despite the defeat, Iraq qualify with six points from their previous wins. But the emotional damage is undeniable: a red card, an injury, an own goal and a rival that outmatched them in intensity and decision-making.

The team must regain confidence quickly before facing Jordan, the Group C winners. The question now is whether Iraq can reinvent themselves, or whether this 2–0 defeat marks the beginning of their downfall.

One thing is certain: Algeria leave this match strengthened, with authority, momentum and the confidence needed to continue defending their crown.