Iraq shocked hosts China in a crucial clash between group A opponents. The win now puts Iraq into second place in the group with six points while China holds third place with three points.
Younis Mahmoud scored the lone goal of the game and his second of qualifying just before halftime to give Iraq all they needed.
A stout defensive performance helped propel the Iraqis to victory as they frustrated China throughout the match and did not allow them to create much.
China was able to pressure Iraq as time wound down with two dangerous corners in added time. They brought the keeper up and he was able to get his head on the ball but it was cleared off the line by Iraq. The second corner led to a goalmouth scramble before Iraq finally hacked it away and the final whistle blew.
These teams play each other again next month in Qatar because of the ban on Iraq hosting home games. Another Iraq win there could end China's chances of advancing.
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