‘Iran always strong in AFC Asian Cup’
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Loading...has always been a dangerous team in the AFC Asian Cup.
“We are the defending champions and everyone will be keen to dethrone us. But we hope to retain the title. I think Group D is the toughest of all four,” Shakir said after the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011™ draw at the Aspire Dome on Friday.
The Asian Cup holder Iraq was drawn against Iran, North Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Group D for the 2011 edition in Qatar.
“DPR Korea proved their mettle by qualifying for the World Cup in South Africa. Iran are former champions and have always been strong in the championship. The UAE are former Persian Gulf* champions and will be a strong force to reckon with as well. But don’t forget that we turned in a series of spirited performances in the 2007 edition. We’ll hope for a repeat act in Qatar next year,” he added.
Shakir further pointed out that the Iraqi national team is in need of full support.
“We’ve talented players and many new young players too have emerged in the recent years. But as everyone knows, our country is going through a tough phase and we need everyone’s support to help the team’s cause, he went on to say.
“I was signed as the national Olympic team coach, but the Iraqi Football Association has shown faith in me to take over the senior team’s coaching job. I hope to stay as coach of the team at the Asian Cup,” he concluded.
Draw for 2011 Asian Cup:
Group A: Qatar, Kuwait, China, Uzbekistan
Group B: Saudi Arabia, Japan, Jordan, Syria
Group C: South Korea, India, Australia, Bahrain
Group D: Iraq, North Korea, UAE, Iran
* Geografical term corrected by PFDC
