Iraq vs Japan: All time head-to-head record

Japan are undefeated against Iraq for 42 years.

As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 progresses, fans are set to witness an intriguing clash between Iraq and Japan in the second game of Group D. Iraq, coming off a convincing 3-1 victory against Indonesia, will lock horns with Japan, who managed to overcome the Vietnam scare in their opening encounter. The stakes are high as both teams aim to secure their path to the AFC Asian Cup 2023 knockouts.

Historical Significance: A Journey Through Time

The footballing history between Iraq and Japan dates back to the 1978 edition of the prestigious Merdeka Tournament, where they first faced off, resulting in a goalless draw. Since that initial meeting, these two teams have crossed paths 12 times, with their most recent encounter taking place in 2017 during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers for the 2018 edition.

Japan’s Dominance in Head-to-Head Records

As per the record books, Japan stand tall with an impressive head-to-head record against the Lions of Mesopotamia. Out of the 12 encounters between Iraq and Japan, the Samurai Blue boast a record of 7 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. The last time Iraq overcame Japan was during the 1982 Asian Games..

The AFC Asian Cup 2023 Group D Showdown

The impending clash between Iraq and Japan holds immense significance for both teams in the context of the AFC Asian Cup Group D. The outcome of this fixture will play a pivotal role in determining their chances for the knockouts. Japan, despite a scare from Vietnam in their previous encounter, enter the match with confidence and will look forward to solidifying their position in the group.

Japan are undoubtedly the favorites, considering their superior head-to-head record and recent performances at the continental and world stage. The Samurai Blue will aim to maintain their dominance and further solidify their reputation as a footballing powerhouse in Asia. 

For Iraq, this game presents an opportunity to secure qualification and ease off any pressure heading into the final group stage match. Additionally, the Lions of Mesopotamia carry the weight of a 42-year win-drought against Japan, making this encounter a historic opportunity to break the spell.

Breaking the 42-year jinx will not only boost Iraq’s confidence but also serve as an evidence to their growth and evolution as a footballing nation despite the persistent challenges posed by war and other issues back home over the years.

Iraq vs Japan: All meetings

Iraq 0-0 Japan (Merdeka Tournament) 13 Jul 1978

Iraq 2-0 Japan (Merdeka Tournament) 18 Sep 1981

Iraq 1-0 Japan (Asian Games) 28 Nov 1982

Japan 2-2 Iraq (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers) 28 Oct 1993

Japan 4-1 Iraq (AFC Asian Cup) 24 Oct 2000

Japan 2-0 Iraq (International Friendly) 12 Feb 2004

Japan 1-0 Iraq (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers) 11 Sep 2012

Iraq 0-1 Japan (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers) 11 Jun 2013

Iraq 0-1 Japan (AFC Asian Cup) 16 Jan 2015

Japan 4-0 Iraq (International Friendly) 11 Jun 2015

Japan 2-1 Iraq (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers) 06 Oct 2016

Iraq 1-1 Japan (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers) 13 Jun 2017

Iraq vs Japan: Overall head-to-head record

Games played: 12

Iraq Won: 2

Japan Won: 7

Drawn: 3

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