Carlos Queiroz sees Iraq match as “good” for young players

Tasnim – SYDNEY, Iranian national football team head coach Carlos Queiroz said that the friendly match against Iraq was a good opportunity for the young players to gain experience.

Team Melli defeated Iraq in a friendly at the WIN Stadium in Sydney on Sunday.

Rubin Kazan striker Sardar Azmoun scored the winner in the 56th minute.

“Our young players were given a chance to play in an international match. They were anxious in the first few minutes, but slowly took superior ground and it was a good opportunity for them to gain experience,” Queiroz told Iran Football Federation website.

“Iraq has several good players and I thank the Iraqi federation since they expressed interest in playing a friendly,” the Portuguese coach said.

“We could have prepared to win the title but our training camps were cancelled and it was a big blow for us, however we are very motivated to reach our goal,” former Real Madrid added.

“Our young players showed that they have a bright future in the match against Iraq,” he concluded.

Iran kicks off its attempt to win a record-equalling fourth AFC Asian Cup in Melbourne on January 11 when they take on Bahrain in Group A while the Iraqis meet Jordan in Brisbane on January 12 in their first game in Group D.