Four days after bagging his first career international goal, Columbus Crew SC winger Justin Meram got himself back on the score sheet, netting the opener in Iraq’s 2-2 draw in a World Cup qualifying match at Thailand.
Meram went the full 90, scoring in the 34th minute to put Iraq up 1-0 in their AFC second round qualifier. The Crew SC attacker collected a ball on the left flank and cut in on his right foot, dribbling into the area before rifling a low shot inside the near post.
Iraq made it 2-0 in the 49th, but allowed two late goals – one in the 80th and another in the 83rd – to draw in Bangkok. Meram and Iraq now sit in second-place in Group F with four points through their first two second-round matches. They’re three points behind Thailand – who has played one more match than Iraq – for the top spot.
LA Galaxy defender AJ DeLaGarza also saw some Asian qualifying action on Tuesday, going the full 90 in Guam’s scoreless draw against Oman. Guam – which lost at Iran last week – now sits in third place in Group D, with seven points through four matches. They’re tied on points with Iran and Oman for first, but have played one more match than both Middle Eastern nations.
Each team will play eight group matches during the second round, with the eight group winners and the top four runners up advancing to the AFC’s third and final round of World Cup qualifying.
