Ahmadzade. AFC photo by Stanley Chou

By Tan Boon Piaw SINGAPORE: Iran coach Mohammad Ahmadzadeh is a puzzled man. Iran have been all but unconvincing since the beginning of the AFC U-17 Championship and this has left a bad taste in Ahmadzadeh’s mouth. The former Bargh Shiraz tactician is wondering what went wrong with ‘Team Melli’. Iran narrowly beat Yemen 1-0 in the Group B opener, before losing to Tajikistan 2-1 in the second. With their backs against the wall, Iran played out a scoreless draw against archrivals Iraq, thanks to a heroic performance by goalkeeper, Davoud Noushi Sofiani, to squeeze through to the quarterfinals.

The worried Ahmadzadeh said this team was totally different before the tournament started. “I must say that I hardly recognize the team that is playing here in Singapore for the AFC U-17 Championship. We were a much better unit, technically and tactically, before this. Until now, I am still scratching my head and searching for the answers.” “There is not much time left for us. If we want to go far in this tournament, we have to find our true form soon.” Zadeh is probably right. With the hungry Japanese waiting in the quarterfinals, they have everything to play for. “For me, Japan are a very well organised team and I hardly find any weakness in them. I will not assign my boys to man mark any Japan players, and we will play as normal.” “Offensively, we need to improve. Finishing has been our Achilles Heel since day one. I would like my forwards to take any chances that come by.” Although Iran beat Japan 4-3 in the Tehran Invitational last May, Zadeh doesn’t want to take anything for granted. “That win is history. Monday is a brand new ball game for us. Nobody can take Japan lightly. Japan is a strong team but we are ready for them.”