Iraq bombing targeted football fans, says Iraqi officials

Iraqi officials said a series of bombings targeting football fans has struck cafes in and around Baghdad, killing 16 and wounding dozens.

The attacks struck in quick succession on Thursday night while the cafes were filled with patrons watching a football match.

Police said five people were killed in Azamiyah, and another three were killed in Umm al-Maalif.

Another blast struck Jbala, about 50 kilometres south of Baghdad, killing eight. Hospital officials confirmed the casualty toll.