Iraqi volleyball shocker: Erbil beat Masafi
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Just when the script for the Iraqi Volleyball Elite League seemed written, Erbil SC ripped it up in Round 13. In a pulsating five-set thriller on Sunday (April 20th), a resurgent Erbil side ended the dominant winning streak of league leaders Masafi Al-Shamal, clinching a dramatic 3-2 victory (23-25, 25-21, 22-25, 25-18, 17-15). This marked Erbil's impressive sixth consecutive win, throwing a fascinating curveball into the season's narrative.
For weeks, teams have been focusing on the top to qualify for the prestigious Top 4 playoff. The ultimate league champion will be crowned only after these four elite teams battle it out in a final tournament hosted in Baghdad.
So, while Masafi Al-Shamal's earlier win against rivals Al-Shorta was crucial, it cemented their place in the Baghdad showdown, not the overall title. Both Al-Shorta and Masafi Al-Shamal have now officially booked their tickets to the final playoff round, navigating a highly competitive season.
But who will join them? According to sources, at least one crucial spot remains undecided, adding immense pressure to the final Round 14 fixtures scheduled for Friday, April 25th. The results of these matches will determine which team(s) secure the remaining coveted places in the Baghdad finals.
This season has been lauded for its excitement, with numerous matches stretching to a deciding fifth set – a testament, as observers note, to the rising technical level across the league and the federation's efforts in fostering thrilling competition. As the Elite League phase nears its end, the real battle is just beginning, promising a dramatic conclusion in the capital.
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