Bafana Bafana are certain to be feeling the weight of the nation ahead of the start with plenty of pressure coming not only from fans, but also from local organisers and FIFA, who know the importance of a successful on-field performance of a host team.

The South Africans, led by Aaron Mokoena, have had a mixed few days with reports of a bonus dispute coming along with news of an injury scare for key midfielder Steven Pienaar.

But with all that now behind them, Santana is hoping they can begin with a win against the Asian champions at Ellis Park - a victory he is hoping will carry them a long way in Group A, which also includes New Zealand and Spain.

"If we beat Iraq we will be halfway to succeeding," Santana said. "I have targeted the opening two games against Iraq and New Zealand to get us through to the semi-finals.

"If we get six points we would be able to play Spain in our final group match more relaxed knowing that we had qualified.

"But Iraq are a good side. They are big and strong and not an easy side to beat."

The Brazilian is nevertheless confident his side will be able to deliver.

He said: "There will be pressure, but I have confidence in my team. We have the skill and ability to win and that is my priority.

"We have worked hard, the players now understand my tactics and coaching style and we are looking forward to making South Africa proud."

Santana has been handed a major boost with news that Everton midfielder Pienaar will be fit to play.

The 27-year-old sustained an ankle injury in a 1-0 friendly win over Poland, which was followed by a bout of 'flu.

Iraq also had their fair share of problems heading into the tournament with their Serbian coach Bora Milutinovic only taking charge of the team in mid-April following the sacking of Jorvan Vieira.

The veteran coach's unfancied team will be relying heavily on the performances of new FC Twente midfielder Nashat Akram and striker Younis Mahmoud.

But Milutinovic insists Iraq can be competitive.

"When you're playing in such an important competition and you're representing your continent, you need to go with maximum ambition," he told www.fifa.com.

"With all the overseas players, I've no doubt but that we'll be a competitive team.

"We have tried our best to prepare the team for the FIFA Confederations Cup despite the short period that we had.

"Our team have good players who are skilful, and I'm really optimistic that we can deliver good performances in the tournament."

Kick Off is 11.30pm tonight live on SBS.

From Thahir Asmal, PA Sport, Johannesburg