Queiroz joy as Iran gather momentum

AFC Asian Cup – BRISBANE, Iran coach Carlos Queiroz has said the AFC Asian Cup Group C winners will head into the quarter-finals with a full squad ready to make a run at the title.

Queiroz tweaked his line-up for Iran’s 1-0 injury-time win over the United Arab Emirates on Monday and came away satisfied with how the entire team stepped up to unseat Mahdi Ali’s side from the top spot.

After making it a perfect three-from-three in the group phase, Iran will likely avoid defending champions and Group D leaders Japan at the first hurdle of the knockout stage on Friday.

“The changes reflected two yellow cards in the squad and one injury, as well as the chance to use some players with fresh legs especially in the front line,” Queiroz said.

“Now we have a full squad ready to play, both tactically and mentally, as the young boys gained some experience and did very well. My plan was also to use some aces later on if it was necessary, and the experience of the players that came on played a big role in the match.

“It was a good win against the UAE as in my opinion they are the best football team in West Asia – they have beautiful players and good combinations and have played together for a long time. It is difficult to play against them as they play like a club team.

“(We) showed good concentration and played with a fantastic attitude and were willing to sacrifice for the team. We played a passing game and were better than UAE in terms of penetration and movement. It was a great football game, very emotional and skilful.”

Samsung Player of the Match Reza Ghoochannejhad was one of those aces Queiroz referred to, winning the game in the 91st minute off the bench. Iran’s last-eight opponents will likely be Iraq in what could be a highly-charged affair in Canberra.

“Congratulations to both teams but I think Iran was more efficient today,” said the Kuwait-based Ghoochannejhad. “Luckily we scored in the dying seconds. Our team showed amazing spirit and chemistry. Right now everyone is happy but we have to focus on the upcoming days.

“There is still a chance we play Japan, but it’ll probably be Iraq. If we play Iraq it’s up to the coach. We trust the coach that tactically, he’ll come up with very strong organisation, with a good plan and we just have to do what he asks from us on the pitch.”