AFC U17 Asian Cup
Mehrojidin Rozykov was sent off in their 3-0 Group D loss to DPR Korea, and this is a huge blow to Ragini as his side must defeat Iran to stand any hope of making the quarter-finals.
The 2008 runners-up, who beat Oman 2-1 on Matchday One, are on three points, level with Oman and one behind leaders DPR Korea.
“This is a big disappointment for the team and I’m very upset,” he said. “Rozykov is an important player and crucial for our next match.”
Tajikistan held their own against DPR Korea in the first half on Tuesday, but emerged second best after the break when they conceded three goals, including two in the space of 10 minutes.
#AFCU17 | Group D: DPR Korea 3-0 Tajikistan
Ragini is no stranger to Iran’s style of play, having encountered them several times.
“This time they have a more compact, prepared and structured team,” said the Italian. “Iran prefer long balls, have very strong forwards and protect their goal.
“It has been interesting every time we play. I hope that aspect remains, but we still need a win to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 and this is going to be very difficult.”
Iran, who anchor the group with one point, drew 1-1 with DPR Korea and lost 3-2 to Oman, who came from behind twice to dent the 2008 champions’ hopes of easing into the quarter-finals.
Head coach Abbas Chamanian knows even a win would leave them dependent on the outcome of the Oman-DPR Korea clash, played simultaneously on Friday.
#AFCU17 | Group D: Oman 3-2 IR Iran
“The most important thing is to lift the players’ mindset and instill a winning mentality,” he said. “Tajikistan is very strong, but we have enough match experience against them.
“I only hope our defensive line fully focuses on the match and does not lose the ball.”
IR Iran v Tajikistan
Venue: Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Friday, 20:15 (UTC+3)
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