Ghotbi anticipates ‘advert for Asian football’

AFC – DOHA, Iran coach Afshin Ghotbi expects his side’s hotly anticipated clash with neighbours Iraq in their AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011™ Group D opener on Sunday to provide the perfect advert for Asian football.

The match at Al Rayyan Stadium pitches the reigning champions against an Iran side that has captured the title on three previous occasions.

Ghotbi, who will step down after the AFC Asian Cup to take charge of Japanese side Shimizu S-Pulse, has already stated in the build up to the tournament that he expects Iran to mount a serious challenge for a fourth title.

And though the 46-year-old knows his team have been handed a far from easy start against Iraq, he is sure it will prove a memorable encounter between the regional rivals.

“We are very happy to play the 2007 champions in the first match,” said the former Perspolis (Pirouzi) boss.

“I am sure the world will be watching so I hope we can create an exciting match and show the progress of Asian football.

“Iraq are a good team, they are champions of the last tournament and have a lot of quality. They have a good chance to go far in this tournament but I believe my team is better.”

Of some concern to Iran though is their indifferent form in the build-up to the tournament.

After losing 2-0 to Kuwait in the West Asian Football Federation Championship last October, Team Melli were then beaten 3-0 in a friendly with Brazil before playing out an uninspiring goalless draw with AFC Asian Cup hosts Qatar.

Nevertheless, Ghotbi has faith in the players at his disposal to challenge for a first continental title since 1976.

“I think any coach, when he takes on a job, has to set targets for his team,” he added.

“I believe the passion of the fans and quality of football in Iran is so high.

“We have the quality to win this tournament. There are some events we cannot control so we have to leave that a little bit to the higher power and I hope we have that bit of luck that is necessary to become the champions.”

But despite his confidence in the ability of his team, Ghotbi was keen to play down the necessity of getting a positive result in the opening game.

“There are nine points to fight for (in the group),” he continued.

“If we lose the match we don’t lose hope to progress to the next round.

“Regardless of the outcome of tomorrow’s match we will go on because our target is not only to win the opening match; it is to go to the second round.”