Iraq eyes group top spot at Asian Cup

In the Asian Cup, Iraq will first play Jordan for a chance to advance in Group D.

The Iraqi national football team for the Asian Cup.

Final preparations are taking place for the opening of the Asian Cup on Friday night when Australia takes on Kuwait.

It's the first time Australia has hosted the football tournament with matches taking places in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle.

The winner will earn the right to take part in the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup in Russia.

Iraq is in Group D with its first match against Jordan in Brisbane on Monday next week.

Tarik Alharis is the team spokesman for Iraq.

He told Greg Dyett, Iraq will be challenging Japan for first place in Group D.

(Click on the audio tab above to hear the full interview)