Duhok to host Al-Ahli Sana’a in AGCFF Gulf Club Champions League opener

DUHOK — Duhok Sports Club will host Yemen’s Al-Ahli Sana’a in the opening match of the AGCFF Gulf Club Champions League on Tuesday, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 p.m. at Duhok Stadium. A large crowd is expected to gather to support the home team in this highly anticipated tournament opener.

This marks Duhok’s first match in the tournament, which features eight teams divided into two groups. Duhok is in Group A, alongside Al-Ahli Sana’a, Al-Nasr from the UAE, and Dhofar of Oman. Group B includes Qatar’s Al-Arabi, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq, Bahrain’s Al-Riffa, and Kuwait’s Al-Qadsia.

Duhok held their final practice session last night, preparing for the important match.

The AGCFF Gulf Club Champions League, organized by the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation, follows a round-robin format. Two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, with the top team from Group A facing the second-placed team from Group B, and the leader of Group B meeting the runner-up from Group A. The tournament will culminate in the final on April 25, 2025.

Jasim Haji, Duhok Sports Club, told the Iraqi News Agency that all players are fit and ready for the game, with no injuries or suspensions reported. He emphasized the importance of securing a win, especially with the home crowd’s support. Duhok will travel to Oman for their second game against Dhofar.

The AGCFF Gulf Club Champions League has announced financial incentives for participating teams. The tournament winner will receive a $3 million prize, while the runner-up will be awarded $1 million.