Esteghlal want to remain top of Group D: Winfried Schaefer
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Loading...Tehran Times – TEHRAN, Esteghlal coach Winfried Schaefer says that they want to stay at top of Group D.
The Iranian giant will host Al Ain of the UAE in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Matchday Four of the AFC Champions League.
Esteghlal are top on five points, while Al Ain are now third, level with Al Rayyan on three points but separated on goal difference. Al Hilal are bottom on two.
“Everybody knows tomorrow is a big game. We have a chance to remain at top of the group. I hope the Iranian fans enjoy the match. I also hope the supporters respect the rules and don’t bring fireworks to the stadium,” the German coach said in the pre-match news conference.
The Malaysian referee awarded two penalties to Al Ain last week but Schaefer says their players should not put the officials under pressure.
“First of all, I would like to say I am so happy that I am not a referee. I know that to officiate is a very hard job. In my opinion, we have to help the referees to do their best performances,” the Esteghlal coach stated.
Meanwhile, Al Ain coach Zoran Mamic also says they expect a tough game against Esteghlal but they are determined to win the match at the Azadi Stadium.
“We expect a difficult match. Esteghlal played very well last week and they got a good result in their away match. But we can defeat them if we keep confidence in our game,” Mamic said.
Mamic said they are not afraid of playing ahead of 100,000 spectators.
“As I’ve already said, we’ve come here to enjoy the football,” the Croat stated.
“Esteghlal take advantage of a good coach and several good players. They are a better team than they were last year. They have been inspired by German football but we also are a better team than we were last year,” Mamic concluded.
