Iraq has warmed up for next week’s World Cup qualifier against the Socceroos with a 2-2 draw against Perth Glory in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Dalmatinac Park.
The Lions of Mesopotamia arrived in Perth on Tuesday albeit without some of their Europe-based stars including Udinese defender Ali Adnan and Swindon Town midfielder Yaser Kasim who are yet to be released.
Iraq had led 2-0 at half-time against Glory after an own goal on the half hour and a Mohammed Jabbar Shokan strike minutes prior to half-time.
Perth hit back in the second stanza, with Kosta Petratos converting a penalty before Richard Garcia’s headed equaliser.
FT | Perth Glory 2-2 Iraq A great fight back thanks to a penalty from @KostaPetratos and a superb header from @RichGarcia19
— Perth Glory FC (@PerthGloryFC) August 25, 2016
Iraq are due to play Australia at nib Stadium on Thursday from 8:30pm AEST in their opening fixture of the final round of 2018 World Cup qualifying through Asia.
The Socceroos’ 23-man squad will begin assembling in Perth from Sunday night, with Alex Gersbach expected to be the last to arrive due to a Monday fixture with Norwegian club Rosenborg, ruling him out of the Iraq clash.
The two nations are also grouped with Japan, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Thailand.
Japan hosts UAE on Thursday, while Saudi Arabia entertain Thailand on Friday morning AEST.
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