Preparations key to Iran, says Ghotbi

AFC – DOHA, Iran coach Afshin Ghotbi said his team will have to be at the top of their game to make a mark at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011™ Finals.

Iran were drawn into a tough Group D, which consists also of World Cup-bound DPR Korea, defending champions Iraq and former Gulf champions the UAE, and Ghotbi said preparations are the key to their success.

“Asian football is on the rise and the difference in standards of teams is getting thinner. There are no clear favourites in our group. I believe, the success of Iran in the competition will depend on our preparation,” he said.

He said an extensive training programme has been chalked out for the team ahead of the tournament, which begins in the Qatari capital on January 7, 2011.

“We’re giving shape to an extensive training programme and want to make steady progress,” said the coach.

“We’ve a few talented youngsters in the squad and they need more experience and exposure. We’re confident of doing well, but again we need to make the right kind of build-up,” said Ghotbi.