Iran continue to set the pace in men’s futsal

AFC – ASHGABAT, Iran flexed their muscles to show they remain a powerhouse and end the Ashgabat tournament with impressive stats – six consecutive wins, 58 goals scored and only 11 conceded.

With their fifth consecutive title in hand, Iran’s only blemish in Ashgabat was against Thailand (in the quarter-finals) where they were on the backfoot – two goals down early in the first half.

They would, however, go on to win 10-4.

Coach Seyed Mohammad Nazemalsharieh had even proclaimed that Thailand were their most difficult opponents and the quarter-final showdown proved that.

It was not surprising that they overwhelmed Uzbekistan in the final with their fast-paced attacks, as they showed just why they are ranked among the world’s best.

Technically gifted, Iran had five players in the top 10 of the scoring charts. Besides Mahdi Javid’s 15 goals, only Afghanistan’s Akbar Kazemi posted double digits with 11.

As Uzbekistan team leader Jahangir Usmanov said: “Iran are on another level.”