Naft vs Duhok

AP Sports Preview

BAGHDAD (Interstat) — Naft hosts Duhok on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in an Iraqi League matchup that pits two mid-table sides desperate for consistency. The game at an undisclosed venue in Iraq kicks off at a time to be announced.

The teams played to a 0-0 draw in their most recent head-to-head Oct. 30, 2025. That result extended a pattern of low-scoring affairs – Naft has not scored against Duhok in their last two meetings, while Duhok managed just one goal in the previous three.

Naft enters on the back of a 1-1 draw at Al Mina’a SC on May 14. That result snapped a two-game losing streak for the home side, which had fallen 3-0 at Naft Maysan on May 10 and played to a 0-0 stalemate against Al Karma SC on May 5. Naft’s season has been defined by draws – six of their last 10 matches have ended level, including four 0-0 scorelines. Their last victory came April 9 against Al Gharaf SC (1-0), and they have not won consecutive games since late March.

Duhok, meanwhile, arrives after a wild 3-3 draw at Mosul SC on May 15. The visiting side let a lead slip late but extended their unbeaten run to three matches following a 2-1 win over Al Qassim SC on May 10 and a 2-1 victory at Naft Maysan on May 5. Duhok’s form has been erratic – prior to that three-game stretch, they lost four of five, including a 3-0 defeat at Al Karma SC on April 8. But they have shown resilience on the road, earning four points from their last two away fixtures.

Statistically, both teams struggle to find the net. Naft has scored just six goals in its last 10 matches, while Duhok has managed 10 in that span. Defensively, the teams allow roughly one goal per game.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 1-1 draw, a result that would reflect both teams’ recent patterns. Naft has drawn four of its last six home matches, while Duhok’s last five away fixtures have produced three draws.

The Iraqi League standings remain tight, and a win could lift either side into the top half. Naft will rely on a disciplined defensive structure and the occasional counterattack, while Duhok will look to exploit pace on the wings – a tactic that earned them points against Mosul.

Tuesday’s match marks the second meeting between the clubs this season. Expect a cautious start, few clear chances, and a result that leaves both teams still searching for the consistency needed to challenge for postseason honors.