Queiroz credits thrilling triumph to top show by players

DOHA: Iran head coach Carlos Queiroz hailed his team’s 2-0 win over Wales in the tight clash of the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 as the result of top show from the players during the thrilling game on Friday afternoon at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha.

“Thanks to all the team players for the excellent show. We managed to come back strongly after the loss against England in the opener. The characteristics of the players were amazing in today’s game and they were able to focus throughout the game and overcome pressure. The Wales players were tough and played a good match too. However, our team players played with full confidence and managed to clinch the three desired points from the opponents. The qualification is not decided yet and we have to wait for the results of the deciding round against the USA on Tuesday,” the Portuguese coach said.

Coach Queiroz appreciated both fans’ attendance and cheering during the match. “Special thanks to all the crowd from both teams for their support in the game,” he added.

Player of the match Roozbeh Cheshmi, who scored the first goal, said they had a lot of pressure in the first match. “We managed to release all the pressure which is not related to football. After completion of the opening match, we were prepared physically and mentally for today’s game. We raised solidarity among us and depended on teamwork. This led us to perform better in today’s game and snatch the winning points,” he said.

Cheshmi thanked his team-mates for the good performance. “Despite the fact that I scored the goal, the triumph was as a result of working as one team,” he added.

On the other hand, Wales head coach Rob Page affirmed that their rivals Iran deserved the win. “They showed a top game which witnessed a cancelled goal in the first half and many missing scoring attempts. Most Welsh players were not in their top technical status. I am really disappointed with the team’s performance in this game,” he said.

Responding to an inquiry on the impact of high temperatures on the team players, the 48 years old answered that high temperature is not an excuse as the players did not perform well during the game. “Our focus now is to gear up for the England game. The team will be back to the training pitch tomorrow. There is still one more chance for the team and it can play better in the forthcoming game. We are looking forward to the support from our loyal fans,” the Welsh football manager concluded.