By Julian Linden CANBERRA (Reuters) - Iraq beat Iran 7-6 on penalties to reach the semi-finals of the Asian Cup on Friday after the two Middle Eastern rivals played out one of the most extraordinary matches in the tournament's history. With the tension almost unbearable both on and off the pitch, Iraq fought back to beat a 10-man Iran after the teams finished tied at 1-1 at the end of **rmal time and then 3-3 after extra time. Defender Salam Shakir calmly converted the winning penalty after Vahid Amiry had missed for Iran, sending Iraq through to the semi-finals against South Korea. Iran initially took the lead when Sardar Azmoun scored a brilliant goal in the first half but were forced to retreat into defence when Mehrdad Pooladi was sent off in the 43rd minute when he was booked for a second time.