With Spain up next, Iraq's chances of advancing to the Confederations Cup semi-finals will likely come down to its final Group A match against New Zealand.

European champion Spain are only two shy of matching Brazil's record 35-match unbeaten streak and the Iraqis are under no illusions that a place in the next round will likely be decided after today's game in Bloemfontein.

"This game is important but the next game against New Zealand is more important because it's a better chance to go through," Iraq coach Bora Milutinovic said yesterday. "We know that with four points we can advance to the next round."

Group leaders

Spain, which lead the group with three points after beating New Zealand 5-0, can clinch a spot in the semi-finals with a victory today, which would be their 14th straight.

That feat would see Spain match Brazil, France and Australia for the longest winning streak in history. No country has ever won 15 in a row.

"It's an extra stimulus for us to be able to reach the level of a national team like Brazil's," Spain coach Vicente del Bosque said. "But our principle objective is to reach the semi-finals."

Iraq's 0-0 draw against host South Africa has given them a good chance to claim the second spot with another victory, and the team won't give up at the Free State stadium, even though their enormous underdog tag has the players looking ahead.

Milutinovic said he won't change the team's defensive tactics just to appease critics after Iraq's opening match stalemate.

"I'd be happy to play much more negative but to win one more point," the Serbian coach said. "Iraqis have no fear. But we have respect for a great team. My players are going to do all they can to achieve a positive result."

'Spain looked sloppy'

Del Bosque, who has won all 11 matches since replacing Luis Aragones after last year's European Championship, said he will tinker with his starting line-up because the Spanish looked sloppy despite Fernando Torres' quick hat-trick.

"Whoever says Group A is easy are completely wrong," Spain defender Carlos Marchena said. "There's no such thing as an easy match."

Milutinovic has told his players not to be in awe of an attacking line-up that includes David Villa, Cesc Fabregas and Xavi Hernandez.

"You need to have confidence in yourself. You need to have belief if you are going to have good results," Milutinovic said. "Good organisation, good position on the ball, good team spirit and take care of your emotions."