LG Cup: Iran warn Eagles

AS the day approaches swiftly for the LG Electronics four nations gold cup starting in Abuja on May 30, Iran, one of the participating countries have sent out warning signals that they are coming to Nigeria to retain the trophy. Iran, Nigeria, Cameroon and Ghana are expected to lock horns for the LG gold cup that kick-starts in Abuja on May 30 before moving over to the National Stadium, Lagos.

Out of the four countries, Iran, ordinarily are not enjoying bookmakers rating but the Iranians are not giving up because of that. Iran’s most charismatic hitman, Mohammed Ali Daei, in a message sent to the organisers said that his country would shock those who are rating them outsiders in a competition they are defending champions. "It’s good that we’re being treated as outsiders in the cup. This way, there won't be any pressure on us. We’re used to this type of treatment, but at the end, they will swallow their words", Daei who was voted Most Valuable Player of the ‘94 World Cup Regional Qualifier said. For a player who has served his country more than 10 years, Daei knows exactly what he is saying. "People don’t see us as people who know how to play football. What they don’t know is that the game has grown so fast in Iran and it shows in the number of players we export to other countries".

Daei himself had tested international football in the Bundesliga as well as the United Arab Emirate. He enjoys a star status in Iran. In one of the researches conducted in selecting the best Iranian footballer, Daei polled an amazing 52% to win. His charismatic disposition coupled with his goals that are scored in an amazing manner has turned him into a celebrity. With 109 caps to his credit and 80 goals to his kitty, Daei has promised to increase his tally in Nigeria. "I’m happy that I’m selected for this tourney. That means that I will try to increase my goals, but above all, Iran are coming to win the trophy", Daei insisted.