Kaoru Mitoma is in danger of making an early exit from the Asian Cup.

The Albion winger was again absent from the matchday squad as the Samurai Blue suffered a shock 2-1 defeat by Iraq.

The result ended their run of ten consecutive wins.

Mitoma has been sidelined by an ankle injury suffered in his club’s recent 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace.

Japan named him in their squad with an eye towards the knockout stages in Qatar.

They will still be expected to go through with only eight of the 24 sides being eliminated in the group stage.

But their first chance to make sure of a last-16 spot has passed them by.

Iraq led 2-0 at the break and Japan only replied deep in added time, through Watua Endo.

Japan face Indonesia on Wednesday needing a draw to progress.

The two teams are both currently on three points but Japan have the edge on goal difference.

Four third-placed teams also progress.

Iraq lead the group with six points and Vietnam are on zero.