2005–06 Iraqi Premier League
The Iraqi Premier League of 2005-2006 kicked off on October 28, 2005. Due to the War in Iraq, many games were suspended during duration, postponed, or canceled.
The 28 teams were split into four groups of 7. At the end of the group stage, the top 3 teams from each group (a total of 12 teams), advanced to the second round. In the second round, these 12 teams were splite into four groups of 3, with teams playing a home and away against each team in its group respectively. The top team in each of the four groups moved on into the playoffs. The four remaining teams played its opponent a home and an away match to determine who plays for the championship game; a one match event held in Baghdad. In the end of the season, 8 teams were regulated, with four new teams being promoted.
The Primary stage
- Green - Group A
- Purple - Group B
- Blue - Group C
- Red - Group D
Group A
|
Qualify to next round |
|
Relegate to second division for next season |
(N) |
Promoted to the Iraqi Premier League in this season |
Group B
|
Qualify to the next round |
|
Relegated to the second division for next season |
(C) |
Defending Champion |
(N) |
Promoted to the Iraqi Premier League in this season |
- Diyala did not get relegated, but would not play in the next season due to security and economic problems.
Group C
|
Qualify to the next round |
|
Relegated to the second division for next season |
(N) |
Promoted to the Iraqi Premier League in this season |
Group D
|
Qualifies to next round |
|
Relegate to second division |
(N) |
Promoted to Iraqi Premier League in this season |
The Elite stage
The 12 advanced teams were split into four groups of 3. Each team played a home and away match against each of its opponent in the group. Top team from each group advanced to the next round.
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
The Golden Stage (Final Stage)
Semifinals
Match cancelled in the middle of the game after Al-Qua Al-Jawiya players walked off the field. The team was disqualified to play for the third place match, making Arbil the automatic third-place winner.
Final
Iraqi Premier League 2005 - 2006 Champion |
Al-Zawraa (undefeated) 11th title |
Notes
Najaf FC and Al-Zawraa advance to the AFC Champions League 2007, while Arbil FC advanced to the Arab Champions League.