Iran eye Iraq grudge match
Wednesday, 18 July 2007
KUALA LUMPUR, Jul 17 (Middle East Times): Iran's coach Tuesday said that they were keeping a close eye on their possible Asian Cup knockout opponents, including an incendiary semi-final with former war foes Iraq.
Iran are favorites to top Group C in their final match with Malaysia, leaving them on course to clash with their conflict-riven neighbors in Kuala Lumpur July 25.
"We've seen the results of the other groups and the teams that have qualified for the second stage," said coach Amir Ghalenoei. "We're always thinking about it and considering these matters. But football is like chess and you have to be careful in every match."
The triple-champions have not won the Asian Cup since 1976, or before the brutal 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.
Iraq were surprise winners of Group A after beating Australia and drawing against Oman and Thailand. They start as favorites in their quarter-final against Vietnam.
Iran are looking for a big win against a demoralized Malaysia, who have already shipped 10 goals in two games, to confirm their first-place finish.
"Malaysia have let in a lot of goals already but we have sense and sensitivity," said Ghalenoei. "The result of the match is very important and we'll play all our top players."
Iran have five players on yellow cards, including captain Mehdi Mahdavikia, but Ghalenoei said that he would not be tempted to rest them.
Iran are favorites to top Group C in their final match with Malaysia, leaving them on course to clash with their conflict-riven neighbors in Kuala Lumpur July 25.
"We've seen the results of the other groups and the teams that have qualified for the second stage," said coach Amir Ghalenoei. "We're always thinking about it and considering these matters. But football is like chess and you have to be careful in every match."
The triple-champions have not won the Asian Cup since 1976, or before the brutal 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.
Iraq were surprise winners of Group A after beating Australia and drawing against Oman and Thailand. They start as favorites in their quarter-final against Vietnam.
Iran are looking for a big win against a demoralized Malaysia, who have already shipped 10 goals in two games, to confirm their first-place finish.
"Malaysia have let in a lot of goals already but we have sense and sensitivity," said Ghalenoei. "The result of the match is very important and we'll play all our top players."
Iran have five players on yellow cards, including captain Mehdi Mahdavikia, but Ghalenoei said that he would not be tempted to rest them.