Al Rayyan, Qatar: In a stunning upset, Iraq pulled off a 2-1 victory over tournament favorites Japan tonight, securing their place in the Round of 16 of the AFC Asian Cup 2023. The "Lions of Mesopotamia" defied expectations with a spirited performance, leaving the Samurai Blue stunned and searching for answers.
Iraq wasted no time, striking early in the 5th minute. Aymen Hussein met Ali Jasim Elaibi's cross with a deft header, sending the ball rocketing into the back of the net and erupting the joyous Iraqi fans in the Education City Stadium. Japan pushed for an equalizer, but Iraq's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Jalal Hachim pulling off several key saves.
Just before halftime, Hussein doubled Iraq's lead, capitalizing on a rebound after Youssef Amyn's shot went wide. The second half saw Japan mount an onslaught, but the Iraqi defense remained disciplined and resilient. Wataru Endo finally pulled one back for Japan in the 93rd minute, but it was too little too late.
"This is a historic moment for Iraqi football," exclaimed a jubilant Iraq coach, Abdulghani Shaheed. "We believed in ourselves, and we executed our plan perfectly. Our players were heroes today, and they deserve all the credit."
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu was left to rue his team's missed opportunities. "We dominated possession and created chances, but we couldn't finish. We congratulate Iraq on their victory, but we will learn from this and come back stronger."
Iraq's triumph sends shockwaves through the tournament, marking a significant moment for the nation's footballing pride. With their confidence soaring, the Lions of Mesopotamia head into the knockout stages with their sights set on even greater glory.
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