Bonacic: ‘Mes were playing for Iran’

AFC – KERMAN, Mes Kerman coach Luka Bonacic believes national pride proved the driving force as his side defeated Al Ahli 4-2 in their AFC Champions League opener at Shahid Bahonar Stadium.

The Iranians had taken the lead through Mostafa Seyfi before Salem Sadir equalised for the UAE side on the stroke of half-time.

The visitors then took the lead early in the second period when Iran international Mehrzad Madanchi silenced his countrymen but Mahdi Rajabzadeh levelled the Group D encounter before again Mehdi Rajabzadeh and Ali Samereh made the points safe in the final five minutes.

“I’m really glad we have won the game,” said Bonacic (pictured).

“The fact that we were playing to defend the reputation of Iranian football made my players fight tooth and nail and that was why they were highly motivated to win.

“I strongly believe that we had complete mastery over our opponents today. We controlled the game from the very first minutes of the match. I think we deserved the victory. “

Bonacic took over the Iran Pro League strugglers in December last year but they have continued to flounder on the domestic front and the Croatian coach is hopeful this win can give them renewed vigour when they return to league football.

“I arrived at the club just two months ago, there some problems back then which affected my players’ performance,” he added. “I’m hopeful these problems get resolved soon.

“We are now at the bottom end of the league table and we are under pressure because of our position. We can’t afford any mistakes in the domestic league matches and we really have to strive hard to survive. “

Al Ahli coach Henk Ten Cate believes his side need to improve their concentration in the closing stages of the match after Mes secured the three points with two late strikes.

“This is the third game I have been in charge of Al Ahli and in recent matches we have lost in the last 15 minutes,” said the Dutchman. “The players are still not completely fit for a full 90 minute clash.

“But Mes performed well and deserved their win. I believe Iranian sides will do well this year.”