Iran must invest to avoid WC disappointment: Queiroz

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HONG KONG, Sept 11, (RTRS): Iran coach Carlos Queiroz has urged the country’s authorities to commit more funding to the preparations for next year’s World Cup finals or risk elimination in the group stages yet again.

Queiroz’s side became the first team from Asia to book their ticket for Russia in June and next summer’s tournament will be the fifth time Iran have appeared at the World Cup finals.

In 1978, 1998, 2006 and 2014, the three-times Asian champions failed to advance to the knockout phase of the competition and Queiroz fears a similar outcome next year if funding issues are not addressed immediately.

“The situation basically is the same as in the past,” Queiroz told Reuters.

“We have the federation trying to do their best. But unfortunately in Iran, and I think all over the world, when you struggle with financial support it’s always very difficult to implement a programme.

“We qualified three months ago and at this moment there is no reason for us not to have a clear plan and a consistent budget in order to make decisions.

“If you copy the preparations of the last four World Cups, you don’t go anywhere. It’s a simple conclusion,” he added.

Queiroz’s comments echo a recent statement issued by seven Iran players on Instagram, in which they called on the authorities to emulate South Korea in mobilising the country “from top to bottom” for the World Cup campaign.

The Portuguese coach presented his preparation plans to the Iran’s football federation soon after they qualified but only two friendlies have been arranged so far.

Iran will play Togo on Oct 5 before taking on World Cup hosts Russia five days later.

Queiroz believes it is crucial that his team plays more matches against top quality opposition ahead of the finals, something that will only happen if the purse-strings are loosened.

“Based on my personal connections I was able to bring this friendly game against Russia,” said Queiroz.

“Russia are the host nation and have accepted to play against Iran and this is huge in terms of international impact and reputation, but we cannot rely on my personal contacts and relationships.

“If you want to play good friendly games, money talks in football. You cannot ignore this situation.”

Queiroz has stressed the Iranians need to take a more professional approach to their preparations or risk more disappointment on the game’s biggest stage and a widening of the gap with the top footballing nations.

“My short term target is to be sure we have an outstanding, unique and challenging World Cup preparation and I will try my best to be different,” said Queiroz.

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