Iraq's Akram eying semi-final berth

The Spain loss meant that Iraq are currently third in Group A with one point from two games ahead of their final group game against New Zealand.

"Today we played against the best team in the world. Despite the defeat, we proved that we can match them in their tactics, positioning and fitness," Akram told ART.

"The New Zealand game won't be easy, but our ambition is to make it to the semis."

In their Confederations Cup opening game, New Zealand were thrashed 5-0 at the hands of European champions Spain.

Iraq adopted a very defensive approach against Spain, where coach Bora Milutinovic was hoping to end the game in a draw.

"We could all see what happens to any team that attacks Spain. They all get exposed at the back and that's why we had to focus on defence," striker Alaa Abdul-Zahra said.

"But I'm confident that we can produce an attacking display against New Zealand."