12-04-2025
Major blow for Iraq: Zidan Iqbal sidelined for 5+ months with injury, out for key matches
Baghdad ( – The Iraq national team and Dutch club FC Utrecht have been dealt a significant blow with the announcement that Iraqi midfielder Zidan Iqbal will be out of action for over five months due to a serious injury requiring surgery. In an official statement on Friday, FC Utrecht confirmed that Iqbal's season with the club has prematurely ended.
According to the Dutch club, Zidan Iqbal suffered a significant knee injury during a Dutch league match. Following detailed medical examinations, it was determined that surgery is necessary for his recovery. This procedure, aimed at ensuring a swift return to the pitch, unfortunately necessitates a lengthy rehabilitation period expected to exceed five months.
Consequently, Iqbal is confirmed to miss crucial upcoming international fixtures for Iraq. The 'Lions of Mesopotamia' will be without their talented midfielder for the vital match against South Korea on June 5th and the subsequent game against Jordan on June 10th. Iqbal's absence is a considerable setback for both the Iraqi national team's campaign and for FC Utrecht, where he played a key role.
