Daei excited by Matchworld Cup

Sport360 – UAE, FC Piroozi boss Ali Daei believes the Matchworld Cup provides his players with the perfect opportunity to test themselves against more illustrious opponents.

The Iranian legend, who netted a staggering 109 goals for his country in 149 caps, has made a seamless transition into the management arena after winning the Hazfi Cup in his first season in charge last year.

And he is now excited to pit his wits against the likes of Luciano Spalletti and Mircea Lucescu while believing the experience of facing world class opposition can only benefit his players’ development.

“Opportunities like this don’t come along very often so we are delighted to be involved,” he said.

“Playing against different teams and styles gives me the chance to identify the strengths and weaknesses of my own side and compare them with our opponents.”

Piroozi will take centre stage later this evening when they face Czech champions Sparta Prague at the Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum stadium.

Buoyed by the recent arrival of veteran striker Vahid Hashemian, who has returned to his homeland after 11 years in spent in Germany, Daei will be confident his side can spring an upset.

His side’s chances will be helped by the fact Sparta only arrived in the UAE yesterday afternoon, just 24 hours before they are due to take to the field.