BAGHDAD (Interstat) — A statistical projection gives Al Qassim SC a narrow victory Thursday when it hosts Al Najaf SC in an Iraqi League matchup at a site to be determined.

Interstat’s game simulator forecasts a 2-1 win for the home side. The contest, scheduled for May 28, 2026, marks the second meeting between the clubs this season. Their most recent head-to-head ended in a 1-1 draw Feb. 5 in Najaf.

Al Qassim enters the match mired in inconsistency. The club has not won in its last five league outings, posting three draws and two losses since a 5-0 thrashing of Al Quwa Al Jawiya SC on Apr. 9. Its most recent result was a 1-1 draw at Al Zawra’a SC on May 14. The defensive record is a concern: Al Qassim has conceded at least three goals in four of its last six matches, including a 5-1 loss to Al Gharaf SC on Apr. 14. However, the team has shown offensive flashes, scoring five goals twice in the campaign.

Al Najaf’s form is similarly troubled. The visitors are winless in their last five games, with their most recent victory coming Apr. 17 against Newroz. Since then, they have managed only two goals while conceding 12, including a 5-2 drubbing at home by Al Karkh SC on May 20. Al Najaf’s last outing was a 2-1 loss at Naft Maysan on Sunday.

The visitor’s road record offers little reassurance. Al Najaf has won only two of its last nine away matches this season, with six losses and one draw in that span.

Thursday’s fixture carries significance for both sides as they eye the final stretch of the Iraqi League season. Al Qassim faces a quick turnaround, traveling to Mosul SC on June 1. Al Najaf hosts Al Zawra’a SC on the same date.

Kickoff is set for a time to be announced.