Late blow puts China on ropes

The Qataris, however, put the political turmoil to one side as Hassan Al Haydos’ double powered them to only their second win in eight matches, taking their tally to seven points and giving them an outside chance of finishing third.

... if we had taken three points today the whole picture would be more optimistic.”

Marcello Lippi, China coach this result,” said Stielike, who admitted his job could be on the line after a stuttering campaign. “I am the one who makes the tactical decisions.”

Asked if he would consider his position following the latest setback, the German replied: “I have to say this is not my decision, we have to wait and see.”

Tottenham striker Son Heung-min went off injured in the 33rd minute after suffering a suspected broken right arm. “We have to have a scan, it may be broken. It’s not good,” said Stielike of Son, who now looks likely to miss the start of the EPL season.

Earlier in the day, Japan seemed to be cruising to victory in neutral Teheran after Yuya Osako’s first-half goal, before the diminutive Mahdi Kamil poached the equalizer for Iraq in the 73rd minute.

Japan is just a point ahead of both Saudi Arabia and Australia, its final two opponents in what is shaping up to be a blockbuster finish to Group B.

On a night of late equalizers, the UAE benefited from a stoppage-time strike which at least postponed its elimination.

The UAE was seconds from dropping out of the running for Russia 2018 when Ali Mabkhout scored from close range in the third minute of added time.

It means the UAE is mathematically capable of securing third place in Group B, but like China it needs big wins in its last two games and for other results to go its way.

Japan remains well placed in Group A but it will be kicking itself after letting victory slip through its fingers against Iraq.

Japan was looking comfortable with 17 minutes left but after Alaa Abdul Zahra’s slalom run into the box the ball bounced to Kamil, who gratefully slammed home.

So far, Iran is the only Asian side to confirm a spot in Russia.

VINCENT THIAN / AP Syria’s Mardek Mardkian surges past China’s Yu Hanchao during Tuesday night’s Asian zone World Cup Group A qualifying match in Melaka, Malaysia. The match ended 2-2 to leave China’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread.