Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Goa: Coach Qahtan Chitheer wants Iraq to create history in Sunday’s AFC U-16 Championship India 2016 final showdown with neighbours Islamic Republic of Iran and win the title for a first time.
Iraq have already achieved a best ever performance at the continental competition after seeing off Japan 4-2 in Thursday’s semi-final, but Chitheer believes the opportunity is there to go one better.
Standing in the West Asians’ way at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, though, is an on-form Iran team that ousted holders DPR Korea on penalties after the sides had played out a 1-1 draw inThursday’s other last-four clash.
“The match will be very difficult with both teams playing at a high level,” said Chitheer, who will go into the tie with a fully fit squad of players to choose from.
“We have had a special rehabilitation programme since the last game and now our players are ready to play strongly and with patience.
“It’s true it is our first time in the final, but we have many good players and we want to play at our best level and win the cup for the first time.”
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