No Turkey at World Cup is a pity: Carlos Queiroz

Beyaz Gazete – ISTANBUL, As Team Melli is currently camped in Turkey prior to their long-awaited friendly match versus the Iranian neighbours, Carlos Queiroz took a few moments to comment on Turkey’s national team and his side being drawn into the group of death.

“The Turkish National Team has always been a very strong and I am surprised that they did not qualify for the World Cup”.

He continued “They have always been a very strong national team. In the past, they have made some important achievements. It surprising to me that they were unable to qualify for the World Cup. Turkey’s absence, which is a big football country, is very unfortunate.”

Commenting on the upcoming friendly duel between Team Melli and Turkey, Carlos continued: “I see the Turkey match as a serious test for us. I think we will see a strong opponent that is well prepared. I want to thank you, the Turkish Football Federation, for this opportunity to be here.” he said.

The experienced coach reminded all that in the World Cup, hosted by Russia, they will fight against the 2010 World Cup Champions, Spain, the 2016 European Champions, Portugal, and Morocco, in Group B. “Our group in the World Cup is a group of death, It is a very difficult group where we will face very challenging opponents.”

The Portuguese coach who noted that Iran has participated in the World Cup 4 times so far and has not progressed from the group stage, said: “Our only goal is to write history, which seems to be impossible at times but anything is possible in the game of football. Our goal is to be able to make it into the Round of 16.”

Carlos Queiroz underlined his view of Portugal as favourites in the World Cup, saying: “Portugal is the last European champion, the last European champion is always one step ahead of the World Cup. I think Portugal, Germany, Spain, France, and Brazil are very strong candidates in this tournament. England, Argentina and Switzerland are also strong teams. We will have to face these calibre teams in the group stage. There is a saying: ‘Dinosaurs always try to grab the best food’. It will be such a big race in this World Cup.”

Commenting on the Ronaldo vs. Messi comparison, he concluded “I think it is not fair to make this comparison. They are the best players in the world. It’s like comparing a prince to a king. World soccer needs many kings and princes; Messi, Ronaldo, Salah. World football becomes much more beautiful with the participation of such kings and princes.”