International football stars Benzema, Kanté arrive in Iraq for high-stakes match

Al-Ittihad Club, the renowned Saudi Arabian football team, has journeyed to Erbil, Iraq, ahead of their pivotal clash with Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya (Air Force Sports Club) in the upcoming AFC Champions League’s fourth round, set to take place on Monday at the Franso Hariri Stadium.

Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw extended a warm welcome to French football icons, including the likes of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, as they touched down at Erbil International Airport. This marks the first-ever visit to Iraq for both Benzema and Kanté, stirring excitement among fans across the nation.

Iraqi football enthusiasts are ecstatic at the prospect of witnessing former Real Madrid and Chelsea star players in action, with particular anticipation surrounding the presence of the 2022 Ballon d’Or laureate, Karim Benzema. This high-stakes encounter is poised to draw worldwide attention and showcase the growing global appeal of football.