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 Iran's coach Carlos Queiroz gestures Melli have not won the trophy since 1976 and must overcome a tricky quarter-final with Iraq on Friday to keep their dream of a fourth alive. Now ranked the number one team in Asia, 51st in the world rankings, Iran and their coach, Carlos Queiroz, are determined to finally take the Asian Cup trophy back to Tehran. But for the moment they are looking no further than the clash with local rivals Iraq in Canberra. "We are very happy to be here and to be playing this quarter-final," Queiroz said Thursday. "This is exactly where everything starts. "We are sure that we don't underestimate the Iraqi team. They are a good team ... They played 10 matches before they came here, we've played two. The team is well organized and have real ideas about defensive system and attacking team organization." But Iran can also be credited with superb defensive organization, having not conceded a goal so far, even if they have managed only the relatively modest total of four themselves. One of their threats going forward are dangerous set pieces whipped in by 34-year-old captain Javad Nekounam. The game against Iraq could be particularly special for him as he needs one more cap to match the all-time Iranian appearance record of 149 held by legend Ali Daei. "I have never thought about any records throughout my career, from the very first day when I was invited to play for the national team until now, I have the same desire and motivation," Nekounam said. "I have never thought about it and tomorrow's game is no different. "If I start or don't, I'm not going to think about this record. My main focus is the success of my team and to quality to be one of the top four teams in Asia. That's all that matters to me. "We need to bear in mind that we are all one team, we have been able to create a fantastic team spirit. No matter who plays or who sits on the bench, we have great capabilities." | |||||
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