Iraqi fans stock up on petrol and ammunition

(Reuters)
Updated: 2007-07-25 08:36

BAGHDAD, July 24 - Iraqi fans have been stocking up on petrol and ammunition in preparation for their national soccer team's Asian Cup semi-final against South Korea on Wednesday.

Ibrahim al-Musawi said he had already brought 20 litres of petrol to make sure he could fuel his small generator to watch the whole match as Iraq's national power grid provides electricity for only a few hours a day.

"This is one of the strongest Iraqi sides ever and they fill us with pride," Musawi told Reuters.

"We are tired of the sadness that always surrounds us. I sometimes wish we are always playing in international tournaments so we can remain happy."

A convincing 3-1 victory over pre-tournament favourites Australia helped Iraq top Group A before a 2-0 victory knocked out Vietnam, one of the four co-hosts, in the quarter-finals.

Each time Iraq have played the streets back home have almost emptied with a scattering of pedestrians left outside standing to watch at the nearest shop displaying the game on small televisions. Each time the final whistle has triggered euphoric, ear-shattering celebrations.

Youths drape themselves and their cars in large Iraqi flags and parade around the streets to loud music and dancing.

Others prefer the tribal tradition of firing their weapons into the air in deafening, often deadly barrages.

Three people died and about 50 were wounded when bullets fired in celebration of Iraq's victory over Vietnam on Saturday came back down at lethal speed.

The enthusiasm and optimism back home will increase the pressure on the Iraq team ahead of the showdown with twice Asian champions South Korea, with the players hoping to bring some much-needed relief to their chaotic homeland.

Goalkeeper Noor Sabri Abbas said the players were aware of the football fever gripping their country after contacting friends and relatives.

"We really want to do well for the people of Iraq," he said.

"We have a really good chance to make history for Iraqi football and the whole country is behind us."