Iraq's Arbil host Kuwait SC in their quarter-final later today, marking the first time they have staged an AFC Cup game in Iraq in seven years. The two sides drew 1-1 in Kuwait in the first leg and Arbil coach Thaer Ahmed hopes the fact his side are finally able to play on home soil will inspire his players to victory.

"The match will be the first time we play at home and it will mean that official football will return to Iraq," he said. "We are ready for the challenge and we are looking for big home support."

The winner of that game will play either Hong Kong's South China or Uzbekistan's Neftchi for a place in the final. South China coach Kim Pan-Gon is hoping to make his mark in the history books by leading the Hong Kong side to AFC Cup victory.

Kim's side host Neftchi at the Hong Kong stadium in the second leg of the quarter-finals hoping to overturn a one-goal deficit having lost 5-4 in the first leg. South China are keen to join Asia's elite and spent a hefty sum of money this summer improving their squad. "We want to get to the AFC Cup final," said Kim. "That is our goal."

"We want to make history for Hong Kong. A win would not only be important for South China but also for Hong Kong."

Neftchi coach Yuri Sarkisyan, meanwhile, has warned South China his side will do all they can to score and put the game beyond their hosts. "The best form of defence is to attack and that is what we will do," he said. "Our main aim is to win and we will do our best."

In the other side of the draw, Thai side Chonburi travel to Binh Duong of Vietnam hoping to secure their passage to the next stage. Binh Duong surprisingly held Chonburi to a 2-2 draw in Bangkok but coach Kiatisuk Senamuang believes his players will finish the job tomorrow.

"We still have 90 more minutes ahead," said the former Huddersfield Town striker. "So at the very least we are still able to get back what we have dropped on our home soil in the first leg match."

Either Al Karama or Al Arabi will await the victor of that match in the semi-final. Al Karama coach Mohammed Kwid is in confident mood as his side already have experience of reaching the final of a continental tournament. "We have a good history of playing in Kuwait as we previously defeated Al Qadisiya on our way to the final of the 2007 AFC Champions League. I'm confident that we will go through."