Mental edge will be the key, says Uzbekistan coach

PANAJI: Uzbekistan coach Timur Alimkhodjayev believes mental edge will prove to be the crucial difference between his team and Iraq as they battle for a cherished place in next year’s FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
Uzbekistan have an all-win record in the group stages after wins over Thailand, Yemen and DPR Korea but those victories will count for nothing if they cannot overcome the challenge from Iraq in the crucial quarterfinal clash.
“We came to this tournament with high goals and are ready for any team. Step-by-step our players have become more experienced and self-confident and we are making progress in all areas,” said coach Alimkhodjayev.
“Psychology is one of the sides of the game, all of us are human, and this could be one of the decisive factors in the match. However, we’ve had a long preparation for this tournament. And we hope the players will be able to play without any extra pressure,” he said.
It is unlikely that there will not be any pressure on the young lads from Uzbekistan as they tackle Iraq, one of the stronger teams in the championship. Alimkhodjayev agreed Iraq were difficult opposition but was confident in the ability of his own players.
"Iraq are good individually with skilful players. As a team, Iraq are prepared well tactically so it will be a difficult match. I think all the teams which made the quarter-final are strong. We do expect a good match, a strong match, and a beautiful game. Both teams would like to reach the U-17 World Cup. But we will try our best to be the winners,” said the Uzbekistan coach.