Midfielder Kerar Jassim scored in the 22nd minute, sealing Iraq's place in the knockout round behind Iran, which topped Group D.

North Korea kept a tight defense throughout the match at Al Rayyan Stadium, making it difficult for the Iraqis to create opportunities.

Iraq's best chance before Jassim scored came in the 17th when Mahdi Kareem's header hit the underside of the crossbar. Five minutes later Jassim netted on a rebound after Ri Myong Guk parried striker Mustafa Kareem's shot.

North Korea's few chances came from set pieces. The biggest threat to Mohammed Kassid's goal was when midfielder Kim Kuk Jin lifted the ball over Iraqi defenders from a free kick in the 25th but straight into Kassid's arms.

Iraq, the first-time tournament winner in 2007, needed only a draw to advance after an earlier lucky win over the United Arab Emirates and a loss to Iran.

North Korea, which qualified for last year's World Cup, will head home without scoring a goal in Qatar