Iraqis were glued to their television sets on Tuesday as their triumphant national soccer team was honoured at a glittering ceremony in the United Arab Emirates. But questions remained over whether the squad would get to savour its first-ever Asian Cup victory at home. Youth and Sports Minister Jasim Mohammed Jaafar said it was hoped team members, most of whom live abroad and play for foreign teams, would come to Baghdad. But some on the squad, which usually practices abroad, have expressed concerns about their safety and that of celebrating fans. Two suicide bombers killed at least 50 people during jubilant street festivities that followed the team's semifinal win over South Korea last week. Iraqi team captain Younis Mahmoud, who scored the winning goal in Sunday's final against Saudi Arabia, said he wished he could share the moment with his people. "Our objective was to win the Cup and we have it, but now our minds are set on where and how we can celebrate in these difficult circumstances," said Mahmoud. "We wish we could go back and get a reception like other winning teams in open-top buses," said midfielder Hawar Mullah Mohammad. "But we don't only fear for ourselves, we are also afraid for the safety of the large crowds that may be targeted by terrorists." The team's surprise win united war-weary Iraqis in a rare outpouring of joy. Tight security measures, including a driving ban, prevented a repeat of last week's bombings. But at least two civillians were killed in clashes with Baghdad police and two more in the celebratory gunfire. Iraqi fans said they understood the team's hesitation about returning home. "Of course it would be great if they could come and celebrate with the masses, but you can't blame them for fearing the consequences both to them and to the ordinary people," said Mehdi Abud, a taxi driver.
