The Lions of Mesopotamia held hosts South Africa to a goalless draw in their opening game, and lost 1-0 to Spain who have already secured a place in the last four.

The Bafana Bafana are in Group A second place with three points gained from a 2-0 win over minnows New Zealand, who waved goodbye to the Confederations Cup after losing twice.

Iraq would have to defeat New Zealand by a wide margin to go through, provided that South Africa lose to Spain without scoring.

Intelligent

Iraq Bora coach Milutinovic hasn't given up hope of qualifying for the semis, saying he has a host of 'intelligent' players at his disposal.

"I don't like to think of tomorrow (Saturday) as our last game," the Serb stated. "We'll be doing everything we can to achieve our goal of making it into the next round.

"Against Spain my players were very intelligent, the way they played was extraordinary - tomorrow we are going for a win to qualify for the next round.

"We need to produce our best effort and concentrate. If they display the same intelligence as they showed against Spain they'll do a great job."

Rare Opportunity

On the other hand, New Zealand have nothing to play for in Saturday's game.

However, New Zealand boss Rikki Herbert delights in playing in the Confederations Cup, although his country's campaign doomed to failure.

"This has been a rare opportunity for us to have the side together and to play against teams at a higher level," Herbert stated.

The 48-year-old tactican is eyeing a consolation win over Iraq before leaving Johannesburg.

"We'll be going into the match with the intention of getting a result," Herbert added.