We should stroll into quarters, says Iran coach

Kualalumpur, July 17: Iran should have an easy time of it in their final Asian Cup Group C match, their coach Amir Ghalenoei confidently predicted today.

Ghalenoei's team take on a hapless Malaysia tomorrow and a win will mean they stay put in Kuala Lumpur for the quarter-finals.

''Of course, we have an easy match. We should beat Malaysia,'' he told reporters. ''We want to stay in Kuala Lumpur. China have a tough game against Uzbekistan and they know they have to play well.'' China top the group on goal difference, level on four points with Iran.

The Uzbeks are a point behind and Malaysia are bottom with no points and no chance of qualifying.

Iran salvaged a 2-2 draw against China on Sunday after fighting back from 2-0 down. In their first match they beat Uzbekistan 2-1.

China, who thrashed Malaysia 5-1 in their opener, need only a draw to qualify but will be without suspended captain Zheng Zhi and defender Li Weifeng.

Reuters






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