2014 World Cup: 3 More Nations Secure World Cup Qualification Through Asia

The CAF qualifying groups for the 2014 World Cup came to a conclusion Tuesday, booking places in next summer's tournament for three more nations.

In Group B, Australia's 1-0 victory over Iraq clinched a place in the top two for the Socceroos, winning them automatic qualification.

The Australians can thank Joshua Kennedy, as the 30-year-old striker netted the winner in the 83rd minute just a few minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Group A saw some more drama, as South Korea, Iran and Uzbekistan each entered their final match with qualification on the line.

In Seoul, a defensive lapse allowed Iran's Reza Ghoochannejhad the space to run in on the keeper and slot the ball into the net for the winner.

The 1-0 victory clinched qualification and the group title for Iran.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan was slow to find their form, but scored five goals in the final half-hour to defeat Qatar 5-1.

Unfortunately for Uzbekistan, the victory was not quite good enough, as they finished even on points with South Korea but with an inferior goal differential.

Thus, Australia, Iran and South Korea are each heading to next summer's World Cup in Brazil thanks to Tuesday's results.

The three nations join Japan as the four automatic Asian qualifiers.

Including host Brazil, this brings the total number of qualified nations to five.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan booked their place in the Asian playoffs, where they will play either Oman or Jordan for the chance to play the fifth-placed South American team for a place in Brazil.

With these results, the World Cup is starting to really take shape. There are now just 85 nations fighting over 27 spots in Brazil.

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