The Peninsula
Qatar and Iran are ready to unleash their next generation of talent when they face off in Group B of the AFC U20 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2023 today.
The tournament, formerly known as the UFC U19 Championship, makes a return after five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and both coaches are looking forward to seeing their young talent showcasing their abilities.
Qatar head coach Inaki Abadia said he expects a highly competitive affair with all 16 teams equally strong.
“The COVID-19 pandemic meant an opportunity lost for young players so my players are excited to be playing in this tournament.
“All the teams will be equally good and we are looking forward to competing against them,” said Abadia.
The Spaniard said he knows Iran will test his players and he is looking forward to it.
“The Qatar team is part of a project where we are expected to send the best players to the senior national team. My expectation is for us to go for each match with full energy and commitment. We will take it one match at a time,” said Abadia.
Iran head coach Abdolsamad Marfavi said his team are fully focused on giving their best in the tournament.
“This is a very important tournament for us as we want to showcase the best of Iranian talent. Asia’s best are here and we want to compete against them to show our capabilities,” said Marfavi.
“Qatar are a big team. They did well in qualifying, but so did we. Both teams are strong but I hope that we produce our best.
“We have talented players who can compete against the best of Asia and we will do our best to deliver,” added Marfavi.
Meanwhile, in the day's other Group B fixture, Australia and Vietnam will tread with caution when they face off in their opening clash today.
Both teams have tried to do their homework ahead of the clash at the Istiqlol Stadium in Fergana with the respective head coaches confident of a positive start.
Besides the coveted trophy, the top four teams will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup Indonesia 2023 with Australia and Vietnam both harbouring hopes of booking their tickets.
"We are well prepared. We arrived in Uzbekistan last week and had a good training camp," said Australia head coach Trevor Morgan.
"Our target, just like all the other teams, is to win the title. Everybody dreams of playing at the highest level and we will do our best. Vietnam are a good side but it is up to us to chase victory."
Head coach Hoang Anh Tuan said Vietnam are fully aware of the challenge Australia will pose.
"We have played Australia at the U16 and U19 levels before and we know they will be strong. We have watched their matches and fully understand their strengths and weaknesses," said Hoang.
Hoang said Vietnam are well prepared for the Group B challenge.
"The players are 100 percent ready. We are really looking forward to the competition," said Hoang. AFC