Asian Cup Group C Preview: Iran - Uzbekistan

GOAL - This match up is a contrast between old and new in the AFC in a number of ways.   Having joined in 1958, Iran is one of the oldest member nations of the Asian federation. That is a 36 year lead on Uzbekistan who joined in 1994.  

Iran virtually owned the cup from the late 1960s to mid 1970s when they won three consecutive titles in 1968, 1972, and 1976. Uzbekistan on the other hand had a fantastic entrance into Asia when they won the Asian Games title in their first year of membership, but have failed to distinguish themselves in the Asian Cup games that ensued.  

Uzbek players have a long tradition of playing in European leagues starting with the former Soviet Union, and more recently in Russia, and other Eastern, and Central European countries. Iranian players on the other hand made their entrance into Europe in the late 1990s; mostly after France 1998 World Cup tournament.  

IRAN  

Iran is in pursuit of a title that has eluded them for 31 years. Three years ago they came close, but were disappointed by hosts China in the Semi Finals. This team is arguably one of the more talented, more experienced, and better balanced teams that Iran has entered into the tournament in years.

At the helm is former Esteghlal of Tehran Head Coach Amir Ghalehnoei who some believe may not have the international experience necessary to take the team all the way. However, Mr. Ghalehnoei has surrounded himself with a coaching staff that is handpicked from amongst the more talented football brains in the country. Whether this group has what it takes to win the tournament remains to be seen.  

Preparation for this match up has been somewhat less than satisfactory. It started by a 4-0 defeat by Mexico in June, followed by victories over Ghana and Jamaica’s B teams in late June and earlier this month. 

UZBEKISTAN  

Uzbeks are eager to establish themselves as one of the top Asian sides by doing better than their quarter-final finish in the 2004 tournament, and they have the talent to do it. However, facing one of the tournament favorites in Iran may prove to be too much for the young football nation.  

The Uzbek side usually enjoys excellent physical conditioning, and that may prove crucial in the hot and humid weather of Kuala Lumpur. 55 year old coach Rauf Ilineyev is the fourth coach to lead the team in that many years. However, he did well with the nation’s U23 side taking them to the quarter-finals of the Asian Games in 2006.  

Preparations were satisfactory. The Uzbeks defeated Iraq 2:0 and lost to one of tournament favorites Korea Republic 2:1

RECENT HISTORY  

This will be only the second time these two nations have met in a major Asian tournament. The previous encounter was at the Bangkok 1998 Asian Games when Iran defeated the Uzbekistan 4:1 thanks to three second half goals by now retired striker Ali Daei.  

TEAM NEWS  

Iran – Defender Mohammad Nosrati pulled a muscle during a practice session but should be ready by match time.    Uzbekistan - Dynamo Kyiv striker Maksim Shatskikh is sitting out the opener due to a red card received in the last qualifying match.  

KEY PLAYER  

Iran – Attacking midfielder Ali Karimi may hold the key to Team Melli’s success. Former Bayern Munich man is eager to prove himself after an unsuccessful year in Bavaria. If he clicks early on with striker Vahid Hashemian, Iran could have an excellent start to their tournament.  

Uzbekistan – In absence of their ace striker Shatskikh, it may come down to the entire Uzbek midfield and how it will fair against a very talented Iranian line. If the Uzbek midfielders succeed in interrupting the Iranian midfielders’ rhythm and isolate Hashemian upfront, a lucky break against a less than impressive Iranian defensive line could turn the tide in their favor.  

Afshin Afshar
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