Al Minaa vs Al Shorta Baghdad on 23 January
The stage is set for an exciting clash in the Iraqi Superleague as Al Minaa faces off against Al Shorta Baghdad on January 23, 2026. This matchup holds immense significance for both teams. For Al Minaa, it is a crucial opportunity to advance up the table and solidify their place in the upper half, while Al Shorta Baghdad will be aiming to extend their lead in the race for the championship. With both sides showing distinct tactical identities and star players in form, this game promises to be a captivating affair.
Al Minaa: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Al Minaa enters this match in a relatively solid vein of form, having collected 10 points from their last five games. Their play style is characterized by a disciplined, counter-attacking approach, looking to exploit the spaces left by the opposition. Under their current manager, they tend to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on quick transitions from defense to attack. A key feature of their game is their high press in the opposition's half, which allows them to force errors and capitalize on turnovers in dangerous areas.
In terms of stats, Al Minaa has averaged 53% possession in their last five matches but are much more effective when operating in the final third, where their pass accuracy rises to 83%. Their xG (expected goals) per match sits at 1.3, indicating that they are creating decent chances but often lack the clinical edge in front of goal. Set pieces have also been a point of emphasis for Al Minaa, accounting for 30% of their total goals scored this season.
Key to their success is the form of attacking midfielder Ali Hussein, who has contributed with 3 goals and 2 assists in the last five games. He is the creative heartbeat of their offense and will be pivotal in unlocking Al Shorta’s defense. The injury to their first-choice center-back, Ahmed Ali, may leave them vulnerable at the back, forcing the team to rely more on their full-backs, who will need to cover more ground.
Al Shorta Baghdad: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Al Shorta Baghdad, on the other hand, have been in exceptional form, winning four out of their last five matches. They have a commanding presence in the Superleague, sitting comfortably at the top of the table. Their tactical setup is built on a 4-3-3 formation, which provides balance between attack and defense. They employ a possession-heavy style of play, focusing on building from the back through their center-backs and deep midfielders. This system allows them to dominate the midfield and control the tempo of the game.
Statistically, Al Shorta's possession average over the last five games is a dominant 61%, while their pass accuracy is 87%, a testament to their control in midfield. Their xG is considerably higher than Al Minaa's, averaging 2.1 per match, reflecting their more direct attacking play. They are particularly dangerous in wide areas, with their wingers often getting in behind defenses to deliver crosses or cut inside for shots.
Key to Al Shorta’s dominance is the form of striker Mahir Jasim, who has scored 5 goals in his last 5 matches, often linking up with the industrious midfielder Ali Adnan. Jasim’s ability to find space in the box and finish clinically is a major weapon. Defensively, the team has been resolute, conceding an average of just 0.8 goals per match, thanks to the excellent partnership between their center-backs, Khaled Jassim and Mohammed Kadhim. The only concern for Al Shorta is the potential absence of left-back Saad Al-Sabah due to a muscle strain, which could affect their defensive width.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last five encounters between these two sides have seen Al Shorta Baghdad edge ahead with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Al Minaa’s victory over Al Shorta came in an unexpected 2-1 upset last season, a result that still resonates with Al Shorta, who have dominated this fixture historically. However, recent trends indicate a tactical shift in both teams. Al Minaa’s increased pressing game has caused problems for Al Shorta, who are typically comfortable when they control the ball but can struggle when pressured high up the pitch.
Al Minaa will likely approach this game with a similar strategy, looking to suffocate Al Shorta’s build-up play and hit them on the counter. On the other hand, Al Shorta will aim to impose their possession-heavy approach and break down Al Minaa with quick combinations and crosses into the box. The psychological advantage, however, rests with Al Shorta, given their dominant position in the league and their recent superiority in this fixture.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most critical battles will be in the wide areas, where Al Shorta’s wingers, particularly Ali Adnan, will face off against Al Minaa’s full-backs. If Adnan can find space to deliver crosses, it could be a decisive factor, as Mahir Jasim thrives in the air. On the flip side, Al Minaa’s ability to press and win the ball in advanced positions will be crucial, especially in midfield where Al Shorta excels. The battle between Al Minaa’s defensive midfielder, Ahmed Khalaf, and Al Shorta’s playmaker, Ali Adnan, will be crucial in dictating the tempo of the match.
Additionally, Al Minaa’s ability to defend set pieces will be tested against Al Shorta, who have been effective at both scoring and defending them. The central defensive duo of Al Minaa will have to be alert to Al Shorta’s aerial threats, particularly from their set-piece specialist, Ali Jasim.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This game is likely to see Al Shorta dominating possession early on, looking to break down Al Minaa’s defensive structure. Al Minaa will rely on their high press and quick counter-attacks to exploit any spaces left by Al Shorta’s attacking full-backs. The match could be a relatively cagey affair, with Al Minaa attempting to stifle Al Shorta’s rhythm. If Al Minaa can contain Al Shorta’s wide players and disrupt their build-up play, they may have a chance to steal a goal on the break.
Ultimately, Al Shorta’s superior individual talent, tactical discipline, and recent form should see them edge out a narrow victory. Expect them to win 2-1, with both teams scoring. Al Minaa will keep it tight defensively but may struggle to handle the clinical finishing of Mahir Jasim and the movement of Ali Adnan in wide areas.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer one major question: Can Al Minaa’s aggressive counter-attacking style disrupt Al Shorta’s control of the game, or will Al Shorta continue their dominant march towards the title with another convincing victory? With both teams having distinct strengths and vulnerabilities, this promises to be a tactical battle that could go down to the wire.
