"Today we made up for our first match against DPR Korea (a 1-1 draw. The players started strongly and felt responsibility to achieve victory against one of the strongest teams here and were also determined to advance to the top of the group.

"We retreated (in the second half) to protect our lead. We did try to launch counter-attacks and succeeded in creating many opportunities, but we did not succeed in scoring from them. The retreat to defence was also a result of the pressure felt by our players to maintain their lead," said Mohammed.

Saudi Arabia head coach Marcos Soares said his side created numerous chances but could not convert them, adding that they were also demoralised by Iraq’s goal.

“There were many chances to equalise in the second half but It was an unlucky day for us. We‘re just sad because the opportunities we created were unbelievable. It’s easy to score when it’s 0-0 but when you’re losing you get nervous and you’re not fresh enough to score.

“But this is football, not the end of the world for us, and we have to keep fighting," said Soares, whose side will advance with victory against DPR Korea on Wednesday.