Our job in the Asian Cup is not easy, Ghotbi says

MNA – DOHA, Iran football coach Afshin Ghotbi said that the Persians have a difficult task to do in the AFC 2011 Asian Cup in Qatar.

Iran, who has been grouped with title holder Iraq, North Korea and the UAE in Group D, will play Iraq on Monday.

“As you know Iraq is the defending champion but we defeated them in the West Asian Cup about six months ago. Iran faces a tricky match against the team but we can beat them again,” Ghotbi said.

“North Korea makes life difficult for all teams. Remember them against Brazil in the 2010 World Cup. And the UAE might be the tournament’s dark house,” he added.

“Iran is going to end the 35-year title draught. For a country like Iran with such history, we always have to aim for championship. In my opinion, Iran is a quality team who can win the title in the event.

“We will prepare for our opening match against Iraq. Iran will qualify for the knockout stage with six points, though we can also advance with five points,” Ghotbi concluded.