- Fixture: Iraq vs South Korea
- Date: Thursday, 5 June 2025
- Venue: Basra International Stadium, Basra, Iraq
Match Preview
The Basra International Stadium sets the stage for a crucial AFC World Cup Qualifier as Iraq welcomes South Korea for a high-stakes Group B clash. South Korea, sitting atop the group with 16 points from eight matches, are unbeaten so far and know they will gurantee their place in next year’s finals if they avoid defeat. Iraq, currently third with 12 points, are desperate for a result to keep their qualification hopes alive, making this fixture a must-watch for fans across Asia.
Recent form tells a tale of contrasting fortunes. Iraq have struggled in their last five outings, managing just one win, one draw, and suffering three defeats—their most recent a 1-2 loss to Palestine that exposed defensive frailties and a lack of cutting edge in attack. Their home record, however, remains solid, with two wins and two draws from four matches in Basra, showing they can be a tough nut to crack on familiar turf.
South Korea, meanwhile, have been a model of consistency under coach Myung-bo Hong. The Taeguk Warriors are unbeaten in their last eight qualifiers, with four wins and four draws, most recently sharing the spoils in a 1-1 draw with Jordan. Their away form is particularly impressive, collecting 10 points from a possible 12 and averaging 2.25 goals per game on the road. Historically, Korea have dominated this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings and drawing the other two, including a 3-2 victory in their most recent head-to-head.
Team news is always pivotal at this stage of qualifying. Iraq, now led by recently appointed coach Graham Arnold, are expected to stick with a disciplined, defensive approach. Their main attacking threat comes from Aymen Hussein, who has netted four goals in seven qualifiers, supported by the creative Sherko Kareem in midfield. There are no major suspensions reported, but Iraq’s lack of firepower and recent defensive lapses are a concern.
South Korea boast a squad brimming with talent and depth. Tottenham’s Son Heung-Min remains the talisman, having scored 10 goals in 12 appearances in this campaign, ably supported by Lee Kang-In, whose flair and vision provide a constant threat. Hwang Hee-Chan and Lee Jae-Sung add further attacking impetus, while the defense, marshaled by Jo Hyeon-Woo in goal, has conceded just seven goals in eight matches. There are no significant injury worries for the visitors, giving them a near full-strength lineup for this pivotal encounter.
Key Players
- Iraq: Aymen Hussein (striker, 4 goals in qualifiers), Sherko Kareem (creative midfielder), Amjad Attwan (midfield engine).
- South Korea: Son Heung-Min (captain and top scorer), Lee Kang-In (creative midfielder), Hwang Hee-Chan (forward), Jo Hyeon-Woo (goalkeeper).
Prediction
Given South Korea’s unbeaten run, superior squad depth, and recent dominance in head-to-head meetings, they enter as clear favorites. Iraq’s home resilience could keep things close, but their recent struggles in front of goal and defensive vulnerabilities make an upset unlikely. Expect South Korea’s attacking class to eventually break down Iraq’s disciplined setup, with the visitors likely to edge a low-scoring contest.
Predicted score: Iraq 0-2 South Korea
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea to Win | 13/10 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 11/5 | Bet Now |
| Iraq to Win | 5/2 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score – No | 4/5 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 11/8 | Bet Now |
| Son Heung-Min Anytime Scorer | 2/1 | Bet Now |
| Aymen Hussein Anytime Scorer | 3/1 | Bet Now |
South Korea’s form, firepower, and defensive solidity make them the smart pick, but Iraq’s home record suggests they won’t go down without a fight. For punters, backing Korea to win and both teams not to score offers value, while Son Heung-Min remains a strong candidate in the goalscorer markets.
