Ghotbi talks up South Korea clash

Iran manager Afshin Ghotbi is anticipating a tough match when his side faces South Korea in the quarter-finals of the Asian Cup.

The two countries will go head to head on Saturday for a spot in the final four of the confederation’s premier national soccer tournament, after Iran thrashed the United Arab Emirates 3-0 on Wednesday to seal top spot of Group D with three wins from as many games.

Ghotbi said he is prepared for an entertaining affair when he comes up against former side South Korea, who he was involved with for five years as an assistant coach (2004-2007) and match analyst (2000-2002).

“I am expecting a wonderful match and I hope the world too are ready for one of the most exciting matches in Asian football,” Ghotbi said.

“A lot of times coaches are facing a team from their country of birth while we are seeing many, many times where a coach like myself comes up against a team where they worked with.”

“But my feeling is that Iran must win. It is my job to win as head coach of Iran.”

Ghotbi’s side demoralised minnows UAE with a second-string line-up on Wednesday, and the 46-year-old manager was pleased with the way his inexperienced players proved their worth in a dead rubber.

“I am very happy with the performance of my players. There were many who played for who it was their first international match and it was great to give them their chance,” Ghotbi said.

“But no matter who we play against or whatever selection we use, the Iranian players have enough quality individually to reach our goals.”

“I believe we can hold this trophy over our heads on January 29, regardless whether it is Korea, Japan, Uzbekistan or Iraq that we have to face. I have had this belief since day one.”

Emirates manager Srecko Katanec admitted Iran were in a different class to his side, which exited the group stage with just one point from three games.

“Physically we are not in the same level as Iraq, Iran or DPR Korea players. It is normal that in the third game many players will get physical problems. Many of them were tired,” Katanec said.

“Gulf teams are not prepared well physically. They are not at the same level as others because the players play in the local area. The likes of Iran have players from in Europe and this is a big thing.”

“We were without some five percent of luck, we scored own goals so that is it. This is the reality; we played in a very strong group.”