TAIPEI: The Iraqi youth team secured a decisive 5-0 victory against Chinese Taipei in the first round of the Asian Cup U-17 qualifiers. The match, held at Fu Jen University Stadium, marked Iraq’s first win in Group Five of the qualifying rounds for the 2025 finals.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the match commenced with a strong performance from the Iraqi side, with Zain Al-Abidin Jassim scoring two goals before halftime, in the 38th and 45+3 minutes. The momentum continued in the second half as Murtada Mukhlis extended Iraq’s lead with a goal in the 56th minute. Haider Aqeel added a fourth goal in the 77th minute, and Amir Falah sealed the victory with a fifth goal in the 83rd minute. This win awards Iraq its first three points in the Asian Cup qualifiers, positioning them favorably in the competition.