The last of DPR Korea’s three titles was won in 2010 with the East Asian side making a return to the Finals after skipping the last edition.  

Iraq head coach Imad Mohammed said his squad are well prepared for China 2025 and quite familiar with their opponents, with Jordan and Saudi Arabia also in the group.

“Our preparations were ideal as we trained in Thailand before coming to China,” said Mohammed. “We played friendly matches against the Thai and Korea Republic national teams as well as Thai club Kasetsart, where we won two and drew one. 

“We have watched numerous matches involving DPR Korea, and they are a good, developed team with a number of distinguished players.”

DPR Korea head coach Jon Chol will be equally confident of his side’s chances after a sterling qualifying campaign.

The East Asian side topped Group E comfortably, finishing on 10 points - four ahead of runners-up Oman.

Iraq v DPR Korea
Venue: Longhua Cultural and Sports Centre Stadium (Shenzhen)
Kick-off: Thursday, 15:00 (UTC+8)