Mbule's club ceremoniously unveils FIFA prize
by Lukhanyo Mtuta · KickOffSipho Mbule’s new club Zakho SC have officially unveiled their FIFA Fan Award at a special ceremony in Iraq. Here's a look.
The story
The Iraqi club, who signed the South African midfielder a few months ago, held a ceremony at the Dalal Bridge Corniche, where a plaque commemorating their award was unveiled in the presence of local officials and former club representatives.
Zakho's FIFA Award
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Zakho president Chia Amin, former president Ammar Farhad and Guhdar Sheikh, supervisor of the Zakho Independent Administration, were among those in attendance, alongside government officials and former sports figures.
The award was presented to Zakho’s supporters after they were recognised by FIFA for their remarkable humanitarian gesture in 2025.
The club’s fans famously threw thousands of stuffed toys onto the pitch during a league match, with the toys subsequently collected and donated to children suffering from serious illnesses.
Mbule joined Zakho in June after leaving Orlando Pirates, and the 28-year-old has now become part of a club that holds a unique place in world football.
A special club in the Middle East
Zakho are regarded as the only club from the Middle East whose supporters have won the prestigious FIFA Fan Award, having secured the most votes in the competition.
With Mbule now representing Zakho, the midfielder will be hoping to contribute to the club’s ambitions on the pitch while playing for a side whose supporters have already made their mark internationally.
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