Neither side managed to break the deadlock for over 90 minutes, although the match witnessed quite some scoring chances.

The defending champions sealed the victory when skipper Younis Mahmoud sent a low powerful cross from inside the area that was accidently diverted into the net by Abbas.

Iraq, who staggeringly lost 2-1 to Iran in their Asian Cup opener, are now more likely to be the second team from Group D to secure qualification for the last eight.

Iran went through earlier in the day after sinking North Korea 1-0 and topping the group with six points.

Iraq are now in second place on three points while UAE and North Korea lie third and fourth respectively with one each.