Odds: Iraq $1.22, draw $4.75, Palestine $10 (Ladbrokes) Rankings: Iraq 114, Palestine 115 FIVE TO WATCH 1. Younis Mahmoud (Iraq) Looked completely spent even before half-time against Japan, a far cry from the brilliant striker who once wreaked havoc across the continent. Was replaced by the much livelier Michigan-born Justin Meram, who may even be an outside chance to start if Mahmoud is not feeling fresh. Hopefully it was just an off day.

2. Ashraf Nu'man (Palestine) Easily the Lions of Canaan's most dynamic player, one who would cut it just about in any league in the world (and currently plays in Saudi Arabia). He certainly has all the talent, albeit with a slight tendency to feel as if he has to do it all himself. Deserves a goal before going home. 3. Ali Adnan (Iraq) The ex-wonder boy replaced the nation's current wonder boy, Humam Tariq, in the attacking left-midfield role last start. They'll be keen to get games into Tariq but he's only played 57 minutes and Adnan seems as though he'll be the starting option for the rest of the tournament, even if he gave away the decisive penalty last start. 4. Jaka Ihbeisheh (Palestine)

The Slovenian-raised Ihbeisheh has a slice of history that will live forever: he's the scorer of Palestine's first goal at an Asian Cup. Not bad for a player making just his third appearance for the national team, aged 28, and having spent his whole life in Europe – and who only connected with his father, from Ramallah, aged 21. He'll make some dashing runs down the left wing. 5. Jalal Hasan (Iraq) Starved off everything but the penalty for Keisuke Honda last start, yet was probably lucky the Japanese attacking radar was ill-tuned. Hasan shouldn't have that much to do if everything goes to plan but if they lose this, he'll be the man they blame. KEY MATCH-UP Yaser Kasim (Iraq) v Hesham Salhe (Palestine)

Salhe did as much as anyone to create opportunities for his team against Jordan but he more than meets his match in the form of the electrifying Kasim. The Swindon Town midfielder has been picking up the plaudits for his performances and has been already linked with a move out of the English third tier in this January transfer window. IN THE DUGOUT Radhi Shenaishel (Iraq) Should get his team into the top two of group D – they only need win here to make sure of it - although it's hard to see them going much further. They weren't particularly impressive in defeating Jordan and were totally outclassed by Japan. Still, two wins in the group stages is nothing to be sniffed at should Shenaishel manage it. Saeb Jendeya (Palestine)