Saudi Arabia hold Iraq 2-2

Bangalore, Oct 30 (UNI) Five-times champions Iraq were held to a 2-2 draw by Saudi Arabia in an exciting Group D league tie in the AFC Asian Youth Championship played in Sree Kanteerava Stadium here today.

The two teams were locked 1-1 at the breather.

In the fast paced encounter that was evenly contested, twice Champions Saudi Arabia opened the account with mid fielder Ahmad Kabee, taking full advantage of a measured pass by Naif Hazazi, finding the net in the ninth minute.

However, Saudi Arabia's lead was shortlived as Iraqi striker Alaa Kshen brought parity in the 26th minute, encashing on a pass sent by Khaldoon Mohammed.

Playing an attacking game, Saudi Arabia shot into the lead for the second time after the breather with Mohammed Al Sahlawi scoring a superb goal. The quicksilver forward dodged past two defenders and shot the ball home in the 51st minute.

Fighting back, Iraq again equalised through a smart piece of work by Amar Abdal Naba. The Iraqi forward bemused Saudi defender Mohammed Al Sahlawi and custodian Mohammed Al Bishi near the goal mouth to set up Halkard Mohammed who only had to tap the ball into an open goal.

Saudi Arabia Coach Gilson Nunes, in his post match address, said that his team had better chances and should have won but Iraq also played well.

Iraq Coach A SH Abod said that ''it was a good match and I feel we played better.'' UNI MSP RS PDS VV1955