AFC Asian Qualifiers
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.
#AsianQualifiers - Road To 26 | Group B : Palestine 2 - 1 Iraq
"We thank God for this victory, it is very important for us. We prepared well for the match after losing to Jordan (on Thursday)," said Ihab.
"This is Palestine's first win in the third round of the qualifiers, and its first against the strong and experienced Iraqi team. We won because we have good players who deserved to win, as we had deserved to win in previous matches.
"We know our task is difficult, but we will fight until the last breath to secure a place in the playoffs.”
They conclude their debut campaign with ties against Kuwait and Oman in June.
The difference couldn’t be more stark for Iraq and head coach Jesus Casas after back-to-back matches in which they were unable to pick up maximum points which sees Jordan a point ahead in second spot.
"In the first half, we played well, but in the second half, we lost control, where we were losing the ball, and were losing individual challenges,” said Casas.
"We lacked character. I did everything I could off the field, but football is difficult. There are many teams, like Korea Republic, whose situation isn't on the right track at the moment, and everyone is striving to improve.
"I will do everything I can to rectify the situation and win the two matches against Korea Republic and Jordan, and compete for qualification."
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