Denizli bemoans last-gasp equaliser [VIDEO]

GOAL – TEHRAN, Persepolis boss Mustafa Denizli says his side played emotionally when they missed the chance to secure their progress into the AFC Champions League final 16 after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in Tuesday’s 1-1 home draw with Al Gharafa.

Ali Karimi had put the Iranians ahead late in the contest, however 10-man Al Gharafa hit back with a stunning last-gasp leveller from Lawrence Quaye’s long-range strike.

The late goal meant Persepolis remain top of their group but must wait to secure their qualification for the next phase which Denizli told reporters left hm disappointed.

“At times, our players were influenced by the crowd and they played emotionally when we wanted to score quickly,” the Persepolis coach said. “This draw has disappointed all of us because we wanted to have 10 points after this match.”

However, Denizli wasn’t too downbeat with his side still in control of the group with eight points after four matches.

“We are still in charge of our own destiny as far as qualification for the next round is concerned and we are not going to concern ourselves with other results,” he said.

Meanwhile, Al Gharafa boss Paulo Silas hailed the result for his side which he said was an “important achievement for Qatari football”.

“We achieved an honour by earning a point at the Azadi Stadium. It is also an important achievement for Qatari football,” he said.

Below come the post match interviews from PFDCTV.