The West Asians edged Jordan 1-0 to top Group B, but head coach Marcos Soares knows his side’s time in the spotlight will be under threat when they face five-time champions Iraq.

“Our analysis of Jordan was spot on, and we expected a tough game,” he said. “Iraq are also a physical side and prefer counter-attacks, and will be as challenging as our opener.

“But if we win, we will have a strong chance of qualifying for the knockout stage.”

An Aymen Luay strike gave Iraq the lead against DPR Korea in their opening tie, but the 2023 runners-up allowed their opponents to claw their way back to close with a 1-1 draw.

Head coach Imad Mohammed believes his side will be in for their toughest battle yet against Saudi Arabia.

“We are in a strong group, and we will not know who will qualify until the last match,” he said. “But we watched the match between Saudi Arabia and a strong Jordan, and I think our game against Saudi Arabia will be the most difficult of the tournament.”