Ghotbi: Group D Most Difficult [VIDEO & PHOTOS]

GOAL – DOHA, Afshin Ghotbi says his Iran side will be aiming for the ultimate prize to end 35 years of pain when they participate in the upcoming Asian Cup in Qatar.

The three-time champions dominated Asian football during the 1960s and 70s, but have not won the continental crown since 1976, with the team currently a shadow of its former self.

At the 2007 Asian Cup, Iran bowed out at the quarter final stage before missing qualification for the 2010 World Cup, but Ghotbi said this group of players want to return Team Melli to its glory days.

“I think for a country like Iran, with its history, we have to target always at the Asian Cup to win the title,” Ghotbi, a former USA assistant coach, said.

“We’ve had to wait 35 years but maybe we can achieve it. I believe we have the quality to achieve it and history has always shown that.”

Iran are in Group D in Qatar, alongside rivals and reigning champions Iraq, World Cup finalists North Korea and dark horses UAE.

In the lead-up to the Asian Cup, Iran defeated Angola 1-0 after a goalless draw with hosts Qatar.

Their key players include Osasuna pair Javad Nekounam and Masoud Shojaei, former English Premier League midfielder Andranik Teymourian and promising 20-year-old striker Karim Ansarifard.

Ghotbi added: “We have the team, we have prepared a good training programme here in Qatar which has been very good for us and I believe that we will be ready on January 11 and the game that comes against Iraq.”

The Iran boss also evaluated his opponents in Group D, claiming it was the toughest in the tournament.

“We have Iraq who are coming here as champions and they have the confidence that comes with being champions and they have enough of the quality players who helped them achieve that championship still with the team,” he said.

“North Korea will make life difficult for every team, just like they did for Brazil at the World Cup in South Africa.” Ghotbi also rated UAE as “dark horses”.

Iran begin their campaign against Iraq on January 11 in Al Rayyan.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gN2LCCuRGss

Training Photos: