Dushanbe: FC Istiklol coach Mubin Ergashev has set his sights on steering the Tajik club into the quarter-finals of the AFC Cup with victory over Al Wahda from Syria in his side’s first-ever foray into the knockout phase of the continental competition
Istiklol, winners of the AFC President’s Cup back in 2012, topped Group C ahead of reigning AFC Cup champions Qadsia SC from Kuwait and last year’s runners up Arbil of Iraq and Ergashev (pictured left) is determined his side’s progress in the competition will not end at the Round of 16.
“We’re happy to play in the Round of 16, we are at home tomorrow and I hope our fans will support us well,” he said. “They can give us an advantage.
“This is one of the most important games in the history of our club and a very big event for Tajik football. We are playing for the first time in the final stages of this tournament.
“The players are ready for the game. We have been trying to learn as much as we can about our opponent. They are one of the strongest teams in Syria, they are experienced and play disciplined football. But my players are ready to do battle on the field.
“We want to put on a good display and reach the quarter-finals. We respect our opponents but our target is to win. I think it will be an interesting game for the fans I expect it to be a tough game.
“We have no problems with our squad. Everyone is ready and in good mental and physical condition.”
Al Wahda are appearing in the knockout phase of the competition for the first time since reaching the final in 2004 – when they lost to compatriots Al Jaish on the away goals rule – and advanced after finishing as runners-up in Group A behind Jordan’s Al Wehdat.
“We will play a very difficult and interesting match against FC Istiklol,” said Al Wahda coach Mohamed Shbrk. “This team won their group against the strongest clubs from last year’s AFC Cup and they play football at a very good level.
“We know they are good. We have tried to prepare well for the game and the fans will be supporting their team, but we should look to play our own football anyway.
“It will not be easy, but we want to give our best out on the pitch. Whichever team has prepared the best will win.”
Nenhum comentário:
Postar um comentário