Mohammad Al Sahlawi and Salman Muwashar both netted as the Saudis defeated Thailand 3-0 on Matchday Six to remain above second-placed Japan on goal difference.
More importantly, though, Bert van Marwijk’s side are now three clear of Australia in third and will welcome back captain Osama Hawsawi and Hassan Fallatah from suspension.
Ahmed Yasin’s equaliser secured Iraq a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw with Australia last week but, currently second bottom and six points off the Socceroos, the West Asians are in desperate need of wins if they are to remain in the hunt for a top-three finish.
Saudi Arabia beat Iraq 2-1 away from home when the two sides met earlier in the group on September 6 last year.
Kick off is scheduled for 2130 GST on Tuesday at King Abdullah Sports City in Saudi Arabia.
