Iran’s Ghoochannejhad Aiming Asian Cup Second Round

Team Melli is scheduled to meet Bahrain on Sunday in Group C.

“I don’t feel pressure so much as pride at playing for my country, which is something I’ve always spoken about,” Ghoochannejhad told FIFA.

“I’m just happy to help the team out by scoring goals, making assists and playing well. What’s most important, though, is that we reach the second round and make our fans happy," he added.

"I’ll be pleased with that regardless of whether it’s me who’s scoring or my team-mates. Football is a team sport first and foremost."

“The important thing is to stay focused for these three matches and to come away with the results we want. We need to respect our opponents and get the job done,” Ghoochannejhad underlined.