No fear of DPR Korea, says Nekounam
AFC – DOHA, Javad Nekounam’s DPR Korea dread became a reality but the Iran captain is ready for the challenge.
Nekounam told the-afc.com on this week that of all the teams he would like to avoid in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011™ Finals Draw, it was DPR Korea.
As it turned out, Iran were put in Group D with defending champions Iraq, DPR Korea and United Arab Emirates.
“I did not say I was afraid of them. It is just that I don’t like their style of football,” Nekounam told the afc.com by phone from Spain soon after the draw.
“I think our group and Group C are the strongest in the tournament. I wish we could have been in Group B with Saudi Arabia to gain revenge after they beat us in the World Cup qualifiers.
“But it didn’t happen and we are looking forward to the tournament.”
Group C comprises Korea Republic, India, Australia and Bahrain, while the Saudis are in Group B with Japan, Jordan and Syria.
Group A features hosts Qatar, Kuwait, China and Uzbekistan.