We Can Go to AFC U-19 Championship Final: Saudi Arabia Coach
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Saudi Arabia coach Saad Al Shehri says that his team can defeat Iran in the AFC U-19 Championship semis on Thursday.
Saudi Arabia saw off a talented Iraq team to book its place in the last four, and the country is also seeking to return to the final for the first time in a prolonged period.
The Saudis last played in the final of the AFC U-19 Championship in 1992, when they defeated Korea Republic to claim a second title in four events. They most recently qualified for the semi-final in 2010 in China.
“I think we will play well because all of the pressure is gone,” Al Shehri said. “We now need to show the people Saudi football, especially modern Saudi football with this team. I hope we can go to the final and take the title.
“Our slow start was normal because we didn’t play any strong friendly games before the championship, we started going step by step and the team can be better than before,” Saudi Arabia coach added.
“For the players now, the pressure is finished and we have more than we did before and I hope everyone will see a nice game and that we can go to the final and return with the cup for all of the kingdom,” Al Shehri said.
“Iran is a very good team with a very good defence but, insha Allah, we can reach the final,” he concluded.
