Piroozi in pole position claims Kasimov

AFC – TEHRAN, Bunyodkor boss Mirdjalal Kasimov believes Piroozi are slight favourites to grab the second qualifying berth from Group C ahead of the two sides’ clash at the Azadi Stadium on Wednesday.

With Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad looking increasingly likely to top the group having so far won their first three games, the last remaining spot comes down to a three-way fight between Bunyodkor, Piroozi and Al Wahda from the UAE with all three on two points.

However, Kasimov feels the Iranians have an edge over the remaining three fixtures.

“Both sides have an equal chance to proceed to the next stage but as far as Piroozi go, they will host two of their final three games so they will have a better chance to qualify,” he said.

“I expect it will be a beautiful match tomorrow, which will be satisfactory for both the supporters in the stadium and people watching on television. I am also happy to be present at the Azadi because it has a great atmosphere.”

Bunyodkor are a much different side to the one that reached the semi-final and quarter-finals in recent times. Gone are names such as Rivaldo, Denilson and Stevica Ristic with the Tashkent club a much younger outfit these days.

“What we are doing is using and relying on young and gifted football players in our team,” added Kasimov.

“That’s why you don’t see anymore famous players unlike the past. We will try hard to get a good result from tomorrow’s encounter, which is victory.”

Piroozi boss Ali Daei is also chasing the Iranians’ first victory of this year’s campaign and the legendary former Iran striker was confident of achieving that goal.

“Considering the points both teams have earned previously, tomorrow’s game is very important for both sides,” he said.

“We are hosting the Uzbeks so we will do our best to get all the three points in order to smooth the way towards qualification.

“We all know that Bunyodkor are a very good team and our game will certainly be challenging against them. We have to remember that the result comes after 90 minutes plus the additional times, so my team will be well-planned and organized for the whole time.

“We believe we should try to finish the game after 45 minutes.

“What we are doing is solving problems constantly. We had had goal scoring problems in the local league as well, but the players have found their rhythm and the back of the net. Such difficulties cannot be cured in a short time. However we will try to take advantage of our chances and score in tomorrow’s clash.”