AFC Asian Qualifiers - Ihab urges Palestine to power on after historic triumph

Trailing for most of the match, two goals in the space of eight minutes turned despair into joy for Palestine after efforts from Wessam Abouli (88th) and Ahmed Mahajneh (90th+6) cancelled Aymen Hussein’s first half opener for Iraq as they celebrated a first ever victory at this stage of the AFC Asian Qualifiers.

While victory wasn’t enough to keep them in the race for the two automatic spots to the Finals, the three points mean they are in the mix for the two playoff spots from the group.

The result meant Iran are assured of a top two finish after moving to 20 points, with Uzbekistan also well placed to advance as they hold a four-point lead over the United Arab Emirates with two matchdays remaining.

Jordan hung on to second place in Group B after a 1-1 draw with Korea Republic, with Iraq a point adrift after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Palestine, who won at this stage of the AFC Asian Qualifies for the first time. Korea Republic, despite playing to a third successive draw, remain in pole position in Group B.

Australia opened a three-point lead over Saudi Arabia following a 2-0 win against China PR. The Socceroos sit on 13 points, seven adrift of already-qualified Japan, who played to a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia.