The former Liverpool player was in outstanding form and was at the heart of most of the Socceroos' goal-scoring chances until being replaced with 13 minutes to go.

Both sides missed a string of opportunities in the first half, but Kewell made no mistake two minutes into the second when he headed a pinpoint Brett Emerton cross past Iraqi goalkeeper Noor Sabri.

Australia dominated possession but had to withstand a storming finish from Iraq, who had three clear chances in the closing minutes.

The win moved Australia to seven points in their qualifying group.

Iraq, the reigning Asia Cup champions, remain rooted to the bottom of the table with their dream of qualifying for South Africa in 2010 all but over.