The Iraqis, beset by the grim realities of daily carnage back in their troubled homeland, have been a beacon for their nation as they have negotiated their way to the semifinals of the continental tournament.

Iraq have played in a semifinal once before, losing 3-2 to Kuwait after extra-time in 1976, and have the incentive of going on to play in their first Asian Cup final in Jakarta next Sunday against either Japan or Saudi Arabia.

Goalkeeper Noor Sabri, who could conceivably have it all in his own hands if Wednesday's match goes to a penalty shoot-out, said visions of gun-toting rejoicing in the streets back home after each win has lifted morale.

"Despite the critical situation in Iraq the Iraqi people have been paying great attention to our football team," Noor said Tuesday.

"For the past 31 years we haven't reached the semifinals of the Asian Cup and we've stopped at the quarterfinals (last three tournaments), but now we've made it and it is historic for our football.

"This brings a great happiness to our people as we try to make good use of this by supporting our people in Iraq.

"A victory will bring more happiness for Iraq."

Noor said his teammates have been following the celebratory mood of their people on television and the internet.

"There is communication with our friends and families in Iraq and we've seen on the websites and satellite television here the widespread celebrations in Iraq after our victories over Thailand and Vietnam and getting through to the semifinal," he said.

"The celebrations back home have helped lift our confidence and morale and we want to win our next match."

Noor realises the heavy responsibility that could befall him should it all rest on him in a penalty shoot-out, the way South Korea qualified for the semifinal against Iran last Sunday.

"Of course, with such a decisive game you can expect it to go down to penalty kicks but even in normal matches I prepare as a goalkeeper that a penalty kick may be awarded against me," he said.