Confederations Cup Preview: South Africa – Iraq

The 2009 edition of the Confederations Cup kicks off on Sunday, when hosts South Africa take on Asian champions Iraq.

South Africa slowly appear to be getting in better shape ahead of next year’s World Cup, and this Confederations Cup will be a great way for them to test how well they cope with the pressure of hosting a tournament. Of course, more is expected from the ‘Bafana Bafana’ than usual and the players will certainly be aware of this.

Arguably, the best known name in the South African squad is Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar. The only other player that is active in the Premiership is Aaron Mokoena of Blackburn Rovers. Of the 23 selected players, 14 play their club football in South Africa.

Iraq earned their Confederations Cup invitation by winning the 2007 Asian Cup. Saudi Arabia were beaten 1-0 in the final. Younis Mahmoud, who scored the winning goal, is also selected for this tournament.

Although only 10 of the 23 players selected by manager Bora Milutinovic play their club football in Iraq, almost the entire squad is normally active in the middle-east. The only exception is Mulla Mohammed Hawar. Playing for Anorthosis Famagusta (Cyprus) he was the first Iraqi footballer ever to feature -and score- in the UEFA Champions League.

South Africa are considered favorites to win this match, which happens to be the first competitive meeting between these two sides.

The game is set to begin at 4pm local time in Johannesburg.