Iraq beats Oman, one step closer to World Cup qualification

Oman lost 1-0 at home to Iraq in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Wednesday

The result leaves Iraq second in Group C, one point behind leaders Iran

Iraq took a major step towards qualifying for the World Cup finals in Qatar next year with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Oman in Muscat on Wednesday.

The win lifts Iraq to second place in Group C, one point behind leaders Iran, and three points clear of third-placed Oman with two games remaining.

The only goal of the game came in the 12th minute when Mohanad Ali Kadhim headed home a cross from the right.

Oman had a number of chances to equalize, but they were unable to find a way past the Iraq goalkeeper.

The victory was a major boost for Iraq, who have not qualified for the World Cup since 1986.

They will now face Lebanon in their final two group games, knowing that a win in either match will secure their place in the playoffs.

Oman's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup are now hanging by a thread

The defeat to Iraq leaves Oman in third place in Group C, three points behind second-placed Iraq and four points behind leaders Iran.

Oman must now win their remaining two group games against Lebanon and Syria and hope that Iraq and Iran drop points.

Even if Oman win both of their remaining games, they could still miss out on qualification if Iraq and Iran also win their final two matches.

Oman has reached the final round of World Cup qualifying just once before, in 2018, but they failed to reach the finals after losing to Australia in the playoffs.