Iran faced a tough challenge for the first time, needing to overturn a one-goal deficit to secure a 5-3 victory against a determined Bahrain side on Saturday.
Head coach Vahid Shamsaei acknowledged that his team initially struggled to maintain their composure in the match.
“The game became difficult for us due to the pressure our players felt about advancing to the next round,” said Shamsaei. “Initially, we performed well in the first, second and third minutes. However, after conceding a goal, we shifted to a defensive stance.
“I believe in my players, they played well against Bahrain. We face a difficult situation as this is a World Cup qualifying match. I want to tell my players that if they play to their abilities, we will win,” he added.