Mahdi Karim celebrates his goal for Iraq

Hawar Mulla Mohammed and substitute Mahdi Karim scored the goals to continue their side's unlikely unbeaten run in the competition.

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo was on target as Portugal defeated Morocco 2-1.

Daniele de Rossi's bicycle-kick was the highlight of Italy's 3-2 win over Japan, while Ghana beat Paraguay 2-1.

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Both Iraq goals sparked wild scenes among their fans, some of whom ran onto the field in celebration of a side who are unable to play any of their qualifying games on home turf because of the war and subsequent conflict.

"We're delighted by the victories because we know what it means to our people," Iraq coach Adnan Hamad said afterwards through an interpreter.

Hawar Mulla Muhammed's opener came after 67 minutes and Mahdi Karim headed the second five minutes later.

They now have a maximum six points from their two games and the pressure is off when they play Morocco in Patras on Wednesday.

Portugal's win over Morocco mean they stay in contention for a place in the last eight as long as they avoid defeat against Costa Rica on Wednesday.