Sipho Mbule stars in Iraq

Sipho Mbule scored and provided an assist as Zakho SC settled for a 2-2 draw with Diyala in the Iraq Stars League on Tuesday evening.

The 28-year-old midfield maestro opened the scoring in the 40th minute for his first goal in Iraqi football, before the visitors restored parity two minutes later.

With the two teams deadlocked, Mbule fizzed a delightful cross into the box for Sherko Karim to finish and make it 2-1 in favour of Zakho SC in the 62nd minute.

Zakho, however, couldn't hold on to the lead as Salim Ahmed leveled matters four minutes from time, rounding up the scoring in the four-goal thriller.

Mbule, meanwhile, has one goal and as many assists in three matches in the league, having also won the man of the match award in the opening fixture.

He joined the Iraqi outfit on a free transfer from Betway Premiership champions Orlando Pirates, where he spent a single season under Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The midfielder saw his exploits with the Buccaneers, particularly in the first half of the 2025/26 campaign, earn him a spot in the Bafana Bafana AFCON squad.

Now, Mbule will be looking to maintain his fine form when Zakho SC visit Al Zawraa on Saturday, as they look to improve their ninth place standing.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

Related teams and leagues

Zakho

Diyala

Premier League Iraq