Sipho Mbule sent off as Zakho SC suffer narrow Iraqi league defeat

South African midfielder Sipho Mbule was dismissed as Zakho SC lost 1-0 to Al-Karma in their latest Iraqi league match.

Mbule’s game ended in the 50th minute on Saturday after he was shown a red card, leaving Zakho to complete the contest with 10 players.

The 28-year-old has become a regular for the Iraqi club since joining before the start of the season. He has featured eight times in all competitions, contributing one goal and one assist.

Mbule was also included in the Team of the Week after his previous appearance, but was unable to help Zakho avoid defeat against Al-Karma.

His dismissal will now force Zakho to prepare for their next league fixtures without the midfielder. They begin with a home match against Newroz on October 9 before travelling to face Al Naft eight days later, on October 17.

Zakho are 11th in the league table after collecting nine points from their opening eight matches. The club will be aiming to return to winning ways while Mbule serves his suspension.