Intro:

Iraq head coach Radhi Shenaishil hopes his players will recover in time for their semi-final clash against South Korea following their marathon quarter-final win over Iran.

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The focus is on full recovery for Iraq ahead of their semi-final clash against South Korea on Monday.

The Middle Eastern side have a day less to prepare for the match.

Head coach Radhi Shenaishil says it could be the difference between whether they progress to the final or not.

SOUNDBITE: Radhi Shenaishil, Iraq head coach

"One day (less to train and rest) is a lot for us, especially as our last game was very tough and went to extra time. But I think my team will cope as they improve as the tournament goes on. We will try to conserve our energy as our next match may be another marathon, but I hope it will be over in 90 minutes."

Iraq played out a thrilling quarter final against rivals Iran in Canberra on Friday.

The game finished 3-3 after extra-time.

Iraq then went on to win in penalties.

The result - a major confidence booster according to defender Dhurgham Ismael.

SOUNDBITE: Dhurgham Ismael, Iraq defender

"The (South) Korean team is a very strong team and their ambition is to qualify for the final. But our team is determined and we have the benefit or a big win against Iran."

Key playmaker Yaser Kasim won't feature against South Korea.

A major blow for Iraq as they look to maintain their winning form and reach the final.