With the teams tied on seven points, a victory for either side will be crucial in their bid to secure one of the top two automatic spots to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Jesus Casas’ Iraq will be confident of their chances, having beaten Oman and Palestine by 1-0 score lines and a 0-0 draw with Kuwait. Their only blemish was the 3-2 loss to Korea Republic on Matchday Four.

Ayman Hussein will be heavily relied upon to deliver the goals, having found the net in every match except the draw against Kuwait.
Thursday’s encounter will be the first meeting between the two sides since Jordan’s 3-2 victory in the Round of 16 at the AFC Asian Cup™ Qatar 2023, with Iraq sure to have revenge on their minds.

Jordan’s 4-0 win against Oman on Matchday Four revived their fortunes and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 runners-up will be determined to maintain their momentum.

Leading goalscorer Yazan Al Naimat, with four goals in the third round, will spearhead their attack and the return of Mousa Tamari will add confidence to a side aiming to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time.