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Iraq take on their southern neighbors Saudi Arabia at the Jaber International Stadium in Kuwait City for their final group fixture of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup. The Lions of Mesopotamia are looking to pick themselves up from a disappointing 2-0 loss to Bahrain in their last encounter.
Ali Jaafar Madan struck apiece in either half to seal all three points for the Pearl Divers, who also confirmed their place in the next round.
With six points from a possible six after two games, they are currently leading the standings in Group B. Iraq and Saudi Arabia are tied with three points each, but the latter sit in second position by virtue of a better goal difference.
The Greens of Saudi Arabia pulled off an emphatic 3-2 comeback victory over Yemen after falling behind 2-0 inside the opening 27 minutes of the encounter. Mohamed Kanno pulled one back in the 30th minute while Musab Al-Juwayr equalized from the penalty spot just before the hour mark.
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They kept pushing for a winner, and Abdullah Hamdan popped up with one in the 93rd minute as Hervé Renard's side completed an incredible comeback. It also kept their progression hopes alive as Saudi Arabia were on the brink of elimination after that disastrous opening few minutes.
Iraq vs Saudi Arabia Head-To-Head and Key Numbers
- There have been 35 clashes between the sides in the past, with Iraq winning 17 times in the fixture and losing on 11 occasions.
- The Lions of Mesopotamia have won their last two clashes with Saudi Arabia in the Gulf Cup: 2-0 in January 2013 and 2-0 in January 2023.
- Iraq are ranked 56th in the world while their southern neighbors are just three places adrift, according to the latest FIFA World Rankings.
Iraq vs Saudi Arabia Prediction
The Green Falcons have struggled to beat their rivals in recent clashes, including at the Gulf Cup, but we're betting on them to step up in a meeting of vital importance.
The comeback win over Yemen demonstrated their capabilities. Iraq will give them a tough fight but may go down here.
Prediction: Iraq 1-2 Saudi Arabia
Iraq vs Saudi Arabia Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Result: Saudi Arabia to win
Tip 2 - Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5 goals
Tip 3 - Both teams to score: Yes
