Iraq will look to bounce back in the Asian Cup qualifiers when it faces Saudi Arabia on Friday.
Iraq has been forced to play its home matches at neutral sites due to security issues and has suffered tremendously in the tournament as a result. The team managed a minor 1-0 win over Indonesia in its first "home" game but fell 2-0 against Saudi Arabia in the second. In between these two matches, Iraq was defeated 1-0 by China thanks to a 93rd minute goal from Yu Dabao.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia sits atop the group with nine points in three games. The team defeated China in its opener by the score of 2-1; it managed a victory by the same scoreline in its second game at Indonesia. The 2-0 win against Iraq is its most recent win in this group stage.
A win for Saudi Arabia would automatically clinch a berth for the nation in the next round. Moreover, Saudi Arabia would clinch first place in the group if it defeats Iraq and China draws or loses against Indonesia in the other group game. A draw will also clinch a spot for Saudi Arabia in the next round.
Iraq cannot afford to lose this game, especially with China facing last place Indonesia at home. A Chinese win coupled with an Iraqi defeat would give China four point lead over Iraq in the standings.
Prediction: Saudi Arabia wins 1-0.
Start Time: Kick-off gets underway at 10:30 a.m. EST.
The match will not be broadcast in the United States or online.
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