Iraq stunned tournament favorite Australia 3-1 in a hard-fought match at AFC Asian Cup on Friday, pushing Socceroos on the verge of being washed out.
A determined Iraq launched attacks and was quickly rewarded in the 23rd minute when Nashat Akram headed the ball home following a freekick pass.
Australia concentrated its power on attacks afterwards and managed to get an equalizer in the 47th minute in the second half. Top star Mark Viduka powered the ball into the net with a header following a pass from midfielder Brett Emerton.
But Iraq led again in the 60th minute when Hawar Mohammed calmly kicked the ball home in close range.
An absentminded mistake by Australia defense sent the ball to Iraqi midfielder Karrar Jassim. The latter broke into the penalty area and blasted the ball home, sealing victory for Iraq.
Australia, who was held 1-1 by Oman in its opener, faces the real danger of being eliminated in group stage.
Iraq and co-host Thailand both have 4 points in hand while Iraq are topping the group with more goals.
Source: Xinhua
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