With Australia already assured of one of the group's two final round berths, the destiny of the second slot will be decided when the two Gulf rivals clash in Dubai.

The two teams are tied on seven points but Iraq's superior goal difference means that the Asian Cup holders will advance in the event of a draw.

But with his team in a rich vein of form after back-to-back wins against Australia and China, Hamad insisted that they will press for victory.

"We are going into the game to get a win and we will do that in the game," said Hamad.

"Qatar are a hard team to beat and things are not going to be easy but we will work hard to get a victory.

"The win against China helped us to remain in contention for the second qualifying spot in the group but we must continue winning."

Iraq will be without suspended defender Saad Atiah while skipper Younis Mahmoud is an injury doubt after being taken off early in last week's 2-1 win in China.

Meanwhile, Qatar could be missing defender Abdulla Koni, who suffered a thigh injury in the 3-1 home loss to Australia last Saturday, while Yusef Ahmed is suspended.

However, coach Jorge Fossati is optimistic of an improved performance by his team as they attempt to snatch the final qualifying spot.

"I'm confident that we will fix the mistakes that we had in our previous match and have a better game against Iraq," said the Uruguayan.

"I've asked the players to forget the defeat against Australia and think of Iraq.

"We still have a chance although we know very well that Iraq will not be easy to beat," he added.

"So what we want to do is have a good ending and a good match and play for the country and our people."