High-flying Thailand will be looking forward to continue their winning streak while Iran will look out to restore some pride in the concluding day of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup group ‘B’ qualifiers at the Bangabandnu National Stadium at 4pm today. The top ranked Thai’s, who drubbed hosts Bangladesh 9-0 and edged past their ASEAN rival Philippines 1-0, just need a draw to emerge as group champions and get hold of the final round ticket. Iran, on the other hand, lost 6-0 to Philippines and beat Bangladesh 2-0 in their last encounter. Piyakul Kawmankang the Thai coach, however, wants to go slow but steady. “We are focused to accomplish our job and we are not thinking anything apart from a win. Iran is not an opponent who are to be taken lightly, we will fight it out,” said Piyakul. His counterpart, Helena Margarida, the Portuguese coach of Iran, emphasised upon the total teamwork. “My team has been gelling slowly and I want to put the best show against Thailand. They are the top ranked team and we will put our best to finish on a winning note. I admit that qualifying for the final is very tough for us,” said Helena. Nisa Romyen and Maryam Rahimi will be the flag bearers of the Thai and Iranian attacking aspirations. Nisa has already cracked five goals in two matches and will be looking forward to add more in her basket. Thailand ranked 29th in Fifa women’s ranking are also ahead of Iran who are ranked 52nd.
Thursday, April 25, 2024
