Iraq’s national football team brought an overwhelming joy in the souls of thousands across the country after winning its first Asian Cup trophy on Sunday.

Authorities imposed a curfew in Baghdad fearing renewed attacks on sports fans, but the numerous military troops and frequent power cuts didn’t hack the celebration of Iraqis that flooded the streets of the embattled city after the referee sealed a historical win.

For a few moments the suffering and divergences disappeared, a magical bond between people and players on the field in Jakarta being formed and joy flowed through this imaginary link.

“This is a gift to the united Iraqi people, to the different spectrums of the Iraqi people,” midfielder Nashaat Akram said after a fatiguesome game.

Even if credited with the second chance, the Iraqi team surprised the football world by outclassing a much more experienced Saudi team. There was a clear difference of experience, training conditions and record between Saudi Arabia’s team and Vieira’s players, but on the pitch Shiite and Sunnis were brought together by a common goal: victory!

And that was the catalyst that sent the Lions of the Two Rivers flying towards a tremendous success. Captain Mahmoud Younis unleashed the fiesta 72 minutes after the first whistle, scoring the only goal of the confrontation and flooding with joy the souls of people of all ages and religious appurtenance across Iraq.

Authorities didn’t miss the opportunity to congratulate the team and praise the “gallant youths” for their contribution to a country-wide unity.

“Our gallant youths fulfilled their vows to their country and people. They were able to portray Iraq beautifully, in all its shades, and bring a smile of hope to their people. They are a stark contrast to those who lurk in dark corners to plant death and sorrow among the innocent,” a proud premier Nouri al-Maliki said.

The sensational path of Iraq’s football team was unfortunately paved with bloodshed, extremists taking advantage of the large groups of people celebrating victories and unleashing a wave of bomb attacks that took 50 lives in Baghdad.

Reportedly, three players from the national team lost relatives during these attacks, but had the strength to continue playing for the an unprecedented performance.