Iraq vs. Australia: Final score 1-2, Socceroos back on track

Australia are back on track towards qualifying for the World Cup, thanks to their comeback win in Doha over Iraq. The Iraqis took an early lead, but unlike their previous match against Jordan, the Socceroos fought back to capture a crucial three points in a 2-1 victory.

In the first half, Australia had most of the possession and plenty of decent half-chances, but was unable to find an opening goal. In the 71st minute, Tim Cahill missed a glorious chance in front of net, and that proved costly. On the ensuing counter-attack, Younis Mahmoud set up Alaa Abdoul Zahra for the opening goal.

Australia hit back quickly, as Cahill atoned for his earlier error. In the 81st minute, the Socceroos veteran headed in a set piece, equalizing at 1-1. Three minutes later, substitute striker Archie Thompson netted the winner with a header of his own, scored off a great diagonal run and assisted by a Tommy Oar cross.

Thanks to Oman's earlier victory over Jordan, Australia are now second in Group B on goal differential and in position to capture an automatic qualifying spot. Iraq are now bottom of the group, and will feel like a win over Jordan is a necessity in the next round.