Analysis: Caltex Socceroos v Iraq

Tomi Juric's first goal since the 2015 Asian Cup has provided the Caltex Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou with a timely boost on the road to Russia 2018.

Juric was lively throughout Australia's 2-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Iraq on Thursday night in Perth, setting up the opener for Massimo Luongo and scoring the second himself.

REPORT: Caltex Socceroos’ winning start against Iraq

But with the question of what to do post-Tim Cahill still hanging over Australia, Juric gave an indication that he could be the long-term solution at centre-forward for Postecoglou.

Cahill is still a genuine goal threat for the Socceroos but - at 36 - the Melbourne City forward is undoubtedly in the twilight of his career.

Juric, Apo Giannou and Mathew Leckie have all been trialled at the apex of Australia's attack and it was the former who shone in Perth.

The FC Luzern striker could have opened the scoring after just 15 seconds thanks to a deft pass from Tom Rogic but Iraq goalkeeper Mohammed Hameed made a sharp save.

But after missing a sitter just before the hour mark, Juric provided the cross for Luongo to break the deadlock soon after.

The 25-year-old striker then got on the end of Mark Milligan's flick-on with 26 minutes left to wrap up Australia's victory, ending a run of nine international matches without a goal.

Juric: 'Patience' key to victory for Aussies

Tomi Juric celebrates after scoring  in Australia's WCQ win over Iraq in Perth.

Juric has started life in Switzerland in decent form, scoring two goals in six league matches.

The ex-Western Sydney Wanderers also underlined his potential for Roda JC - when not injured - last season, notching seven goals in 20 competitive games in Netherlands.

A strong campaign in Switzerland could see Juric surpass Cahill as Postecoglou's leading man up front.

Iraq were well organised, pressed cleverly and threatened on the counterattack.

In the end, the Socceroos' victory could have been much more emphatic, however, with Leckie and Mooy hitting the woodwork either side of half-time, while Hameed made a number of impressive saves.

Next up for Postecoglou's men is a trip to United Arab Emirates. 

Another positive result would see Australia take a significant step towards World Cup qualification.