Iraq hope to thwart Australia revenge mission

A surprise victory early in the campaign against Australia came to symbolise much about Iraq's run to their astonishing and historic Asian Cup triumph in 2007.

Harry Kewell, Tim Cahill and company succumbed to the Iraqis in a 3-1 loss in Bangkok's Rajamangala Stadium in the second round of group games four years ago, sparking a remarkable run for the war-ravaged nation while in turn highlighting the flaws in Australia's approach at their first Asian championship.

Now, the Lions of Mesopotamia will come face to face once again with the Australians at the continental championship after seeing off World Cup qualifiers North Korea in their final group game of the 2011 edition of the continental tournament.

But while the Iraqis' unexpectedly successful challenge for the title four years ago was marked by emotional performances and surprise results, their showing as defending champions has been markedly low key.

A late loss against neighbours and great rivals Iran and an unconvincing win over a youthful United Arab Emirates side left them needing to win against Jo Tong-sop's North Koreans in their final group match, a feat they achieved thanks to a solitary goal by defender Kerrar Jasim.

The victory was not unexpected - North Korea have proven themselves benign and unimaginative opponents throughout the competition - and it has set up another encounter with the Socceroos, who will be keen to take revenge.

'We are through to the quarter-finals but it will be very different for us because Australia are a big team and they will give us a difficult time,' said central midfielder Nashat Akram.