Confident Iran gunning for three points

AFC - Iran coach Mohammad Mayelikohan is under no illusions that only a victory against China in a Group A Asian Football Qualifier match will keep the Persians in touch with leaders Korea Republic.

"I am very confident in facing China," said Mayelikohan. "I am not sure what one point will do for us. What we need are three points to stay in touch with Korea.

"For both teams, there is little point in going defensive. This is a match that both teams must win, just so the victors can stay with Korea.

"The China team is full of potential. There are weaknesses as well. China do not cope well with a pressing game and will make mistakes in defence. This is where Iran must capitalise.

"Only a win against China can keep us in the chase on Korea.

"We don't have the luxury of thinking too much about the rest of the field now. All that is on our mind is the match against China and I can tell you we are not going to give up. We are going to fight on until the very end against the Chinese."

Mayelikohan confirmed that skipper Javad Kazemian has travelled to China for the crunch match on March 27 (Saturday), and while he is keeping his starting lineup close to his chest, the Iranian coach is clearly brimming with confidence after watching China being held to a 1-1 draw by Malaysia in their last match.

"Javad is in very good condition. Although he was very affected by the death of his younger brother, he is on the right path. I still have to see if Javad will be fit to take to the field. His absence has cost us dearly against Korea.

"We have made plans against China and will go through final discussions to see who will start on Saturday.

"Training has been good and we have every hope to come out good against China."

Mayelikohan is undoubtedly one of the most experienced coaches in Asian football and has an impeccable track record against China that should unsettle even the most fervent of Chinese supporters.

He led Iran to a 4-2 win over China during a World Cup qualifying match in 1997, and was also in charge in 1996 for one of Iran's most glorious moments, a 6-2 win over mighty Korea Republic in the 1996 Asian Cup.

"I still believe there is not a lot that separates China, Korea and Iran. It is understandable that anyone can beat anyone in this group. But when you speak of history, Korea and Iran are still ahead of China," added Mayelikohan.

"We have achieved at the World Cup Finals, Olympics, Asian Cup and other Asian competitions. China cannot compare with Iran on that front. With history comes confidence. This is very important.

"I believe this is my lucky town. I have a good record against Chinese teams."