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Asian Cup 2011: Iran Can Win The 2011 Asian Cup - Javad Nekounam
Iran captain Javad Nekounam is confident that his side can win the 2011 Asian Cup.
13-Jan-2011 3:30:00 PM
By Stefan Coerts
Iran captain Javad Nekounam is confident that his side have what it takes to win the 2011 Asian Cup. The experienced midfielder is still a bit disappointed that Iran failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup, but is eager to make amends in Qatar.
"I am confident more than anybody else that we can win the Asian Cup. I believe we are able to break the jinx," Nekounam was quoted as saying by fifa.com.
"We made the Iranian people so disappointed by missing out on the 2010 World Cup. It was a big blow to all of us. The players missed a big opportunity to pave the way for a better future as well. Nevertheless, we want to get back on track, starting at this Asian Cup.
"Every period of football is specific. We saw big names in our football in each period and I am sure the current players can one day become superstars in the future. They are young and determined to turn into Asian and global names. I can't make any judgement now on who will be our next big star, it depends on what is going on in Team Melli.
"But a tournament like the Asian Cup is the perfect time for players to show themselves. It was the same for all famous players who take this opportunity to jump to a higher level. We have three or four players who have the potential to become stars, but at the end of the day it depends on how much effort they put in."
"I am confident more than anybody else that we can win the Asian Cup. I believe we are able to break the jinx," Nekounam was quoted as saying by fifa.com.
"We made the Iranian people so disappointed by missing out on the 2010 World Cup. It was a big blow to all of us. The players missed a big opportunity to pave the way for a better future as well. Nevertheless, we want to get back on track, starting at this Asian Cup.
"Every period of football is specific. We saw big names in our football in each period and I am sure the current players can one day become superstars in the future. They are young and determined to turn into Asian and global names. I can't make any judgement now on who will be our next big star, it depends on what is going on in Team Melli.
"But a tournament like the Asian Cup is the perfect time for players to show themselves. It was the same for all famous players who take this opportunity to jump to a higher level. We have three or four players who have the potential to become stars, but at the end of the day it depends on how much effort they put in."
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