Al-Karma vs Al Shorta - Iraqi League

When Al-Karma and Al Shorta clash at the home ground on April 17, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Iraqi League fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Chelsea take on Serie A giants Juventus in Hong Kong this morning in the latest fixture on their pre-season tour of Asia.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Iraqi League contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Confidence is coursing through the home camp, with W in their last five and a season win rate of 75% underscoring their momentum. On their travels the visitors have been workmanlike, WWDWD in their last five and a win rate of 50% to show for it. One side has leaned on a miserly defence, the other on a free-scoring attack, and the meeting of those contrasting strengths promises an intriguing tactical subtext. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Al-Karma favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Al Shorta are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. As a winger or more of a central, attacking midfielder? “He’s an offensive player who knows how to mix it up across the attack.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. City have now set an asking price of at least £70m for their star midfielder.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 2-2. With positions in the Iraqi League table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.