ABU DHABI // Iraq manager Radhi Shenaishil has warned the UAE not to underestimate his team when the two face off in the World Cup qualifier in Abu Dhabi.
The 2007 Asian champions, currently ranked 113th in the world, take on Mahdi Ali’s side in Matchday 5 of Group B on Tuesday in desperate need of points after losing their opening three matches.
However, Iraq were unlucky to lose to Saudi Arabia and Japan – the latter scored their winner deep into injury-time – while they convincingly defeated Thailand 4-0 last time out.
The victory means Iraq are in fifth on three points, one spot and one win below the UAE. With only the top two teams guaranteed to qualify for Russia 2018 and third place entering a series of play-offs, Iraq recognise time is running out if they are to make a second appearance at the global finals.
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“It’s not a secret that our qualification is getting very critical,” Shenaishil said ahead of the match at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium. “There are no second chances or second solutions for the teams – both Iraq and the UAE know this fact.
“We are going through a very good state now; our preparations were good. If we give our best like in the last matches, I’m sure and very positive of a good result.
“All respect to the UAE team, who enjoy good harmony between the players and coach. But we are not an easy team. We have a great deal of experience dealing with this situation. We will see what happens in the game and give our best.”
In contrast to Iraq, the UAE come into the match on the back of a dispiriting defeat last month to Saudi Arabia. Their collapse in Jeddah led to a 3-0 lost and prompted much criticism of Mahdi Ali and his side.
“The defeat against Saudi Arabia of course affected the morale of the UAE team,” Shenaishil said. “But pressure is not only on them. It’s on all the teams, even the top teams like Saudi and Japan. Pressure also is on us because we have lost points.
“If the UAE get a positive result tomorrow they can play more comfortably, but right now they have some pressure. Both teams will play for the win tomorrow. We will be balanced, see the other team and seek only about winning.”
Related:
• Omar Abdulrahman: Braced for big week for club and country
• Walid Abbas: UAE's World Cup qualifier against Iraq 'like a final'
• Mahdi Ali: Heartened by form of Ismail Matar and Walid Abbas
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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