BAGHDAD, Jan 11 : Coach of the Iraqi soccer team Jesus Casas said on Wednesday that the there would be “special performance” in Thursday’s match against Yemen as part of Group A competitions of the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup tournament. Speaking at a news conference in Basra, venue of the games, Casas acknowledged that his team might encounter some “difficulties” in tomorrow’s match, noting that the Yemenis played well in their first game against Saudi Arabia and “embarrassed” Oman in the second one.

As to the Iraqi team, they will “play in a special fashion as to the ball movement and they will exert more pressure” as compared to the previous matches, Casas said -- excerpts of his statement were publicized by the Iraqi Football Association. He indicated that there would be replacements during the match, indicating his desire to give greater chance to the non hardened players. Iraq are on top in the group with four points, ahead of Oman by the goals difference. Saudi Arabia are third, three points, and Yemen, fourth, no points. (KUNA)