Australia braced for Iraqi assault

Redha1's strike came 28 minutes after fullback Bassam Abbas had come close on two occasions within as many minutes.

Moving down the left, Redha saw goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer leaving his post, anticipating a cross, only for the nippy defender to send in a curling ball that crashed in the top corner of the net.

The result means Iraq now have four points to Australia's seven after four matches. Qatar, who won by a solitary goal earlier yesterday against China, also have seven.

As promised, Australia's Dutch coach Pim Verbeek concentrated on his defence with Chris Coyne, Michael Beauchamp and Jade North at the heart of the backline.

To their credit, the Socceroos did well to contain the marauding Iraqis with North keeping tabs on Younus Mahmoud and Redha.

But it appeared only a matter of time before the Iraqis made good on their pressure, and it was Redha who finally broke Aussie resolve, leaving the teams to troop in at the break with Iraq one to the good.

However, the Aussies started the second half brighter and were unlucky not to grab the equaliser on the hour when a back-heel from Harry Kewell put Brett Holman clear in the area, only for the substitute to shoot straight into the hands of Noor Sabri.

Ten minutes from the final whistle, the Iraqis had a chance to increase their lead when Redha anticipated a fine through-ball, only to be denied by the out-rushing Schwarzer.