Habib Ouslati’s Stunning Overhead Kick Lights Up the Iraq Stars League
Habib Ouslati delivered a performance to remember on Friday, scoring twice as Newroz defeated Al-Mina’a 2-0 in the tenth round of the Iraq Stars League. The Tunisian forward’s second goal—a spectacular overhead kick from outside the penalty area—quickly became the talking point of the match and a serious early contender for goal of the season.
Newroz’s victory earned them three valuable points and moved them into second place in the standings. But it was Ouslati’s extraordinary finish that captured attention well beyond the stadium, spreading rapidly across social media and football news platforms.
Ouslati’s Two Goals Seal Newroz’s Win
Ouslati opened the scoring in the 30th minute, giving Newroz a deserved lead after a competitive start. His first goal helped settle his side and put pressure on Al-Mina’a, who needed to find a response before the break.
The decisive moment arrived in the opening minute of first-half stoppage time. Ouslati brought a long pass under control with his chest, then launched himself into an overhead kick from outside the box. The ball struck the post before bouncing into the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no realistic chance and prompting astonished reactions from teammates, coaching staff and supporters.
It was a goal that combined anticipation, balance and remarkable technique. The difficult first touch set up the finish, while the distance from goal made the strike even more unusual. Overhead kicks are difficult enough inside the penalty area; producing one from beyond it demands exceptional timing and confidence.
A Goal That Could Define the Season
There is still a long way to go in the Iraq Stars League campaign, but Ouslati’s effort has already entered the conversation about the season’s best goal. The strike was not simply spectacular—it came at an important point in the match, just before half-time, and gave Newroz a two-goal cushion.
That timing mattered. Al-Mina’a went into the interval facing a significant challenge, while Newroz could return to the pitch with greater control and confidence. The second-half score remained unchanged, allowing the home side to protect its advantage and secure a clean-sheet victory.
For fans looking beyond the final score, the match offered a reminder of how quickly an individual moment can change a player’s profile. Ouslati had not previously been one of the most widely recognised names in Iraqi football, but his remarkable finish has brought him fresh attention.
From Tunisia to a Breakthrough Moment in Iraq
Ouslati has represented Tunisia on a limited number of occasions and previously played for Al-Talaba before joining Newroz in July 2026. His move to the club placed him in a new environment, where he has the opportunity to establish himself in one of the region’s closely followed domestic competitions.
The brace against Al-Mina’a could prove a significant step in that process. Scoring twice in a league match is valuable for any forward, but a goal of this quality can create a lasting impression among supporters and analysts. It may also increase expectations around his future performances as opponents begin paying closer attention to his movement and finishing.
For Newroz, the result highlights the importance of having a forward capable of turning promising attacks into decisive moments. Ouslati’s first goal showed his ability to find the net in a conventional attacking situation; the second demonstrated improvisation and technical quality that few defenders could have anticipated.
Newroz Climb to Second in the Standings
The win leaves Newroz with 21 points from 10 matches, placing them second in the Iraq Stars League table. They are two points behind leaders Al-Karma, who have played nine games. That difference gives Newroz a strong position, although the standings remain subject to change as the leading sides complete their outstanding fixtures.
At this stage of the season, consistency will matter as much as individual brilliance. Newroz have given themselves a useful platform, but their position will depend on maintaining results across a demanding schedule. A reliable defence, effective use of home advantage and continued contributions from attacking players such as Ouslati could all shape their challenge near the top of the table.
For supporters following the league, the developing title picture also makes upcoming fixtures particularly important. Al-Karma have an opportunity to strengthen their advantage with their game in hand, while Newroz will aim to keep the pressure on and avoid dropping points.
What Comes Next? Fixtures, Form and Prediction
Newroz’s next scheduled league match is listed for October 24, 2026, at 22:30 against Diyala. Another fixture shown for October 25 at 00:45 lists Al-Karma, although the available schedule details do not specify the full pairing. Fans should check official league and club channels for confirmed opponents, venues and any changes to kick-off times.
Looking ahead, a cautious prediction is that Newroz will remain a strong contender for a top position if they can carry their momentum into the next round. Their win over Al-Mina’a combined a two-goal attacking performance with a clean sheet, a balance that is often essential in a competitive football season. Still, Al-Karma’s game in hand means the race at the top remains open.
Ouslati’s challenge will be to build on the attention generated by his brace. One spectacular goal can make headlines, but sustained performances are what establish a forward’s reputation. If he continues to contribute goals and create problems for opposing defences, Newroz may benefit well beyond this single result.
For now, the Tunisian striker has provided one of the Iraq Stars League’s most memorable moments of the campaign. His overhead kick was audacious, technically demanding and perfectly timed—an unforgettable finish that turned a routine league victory into a match fans are likely to keep discussing.
