AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023: Tajikistan's Coach Hopeful for Positive Result in First Participation

Doha, January 12 (QNA) - Tajikistan coach Petar Segrt stressed his eagerness to achieve a positive result in the first participation in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 when the Tajik team meets its Chinese counterpart on Saturday at the Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium as part of the first round of Group A that also includes Qatar and Lebanon.

                Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Segrt expressed his happiness at Tajikistan's historic first participation in the Asian Cup finals, noting that they are trying to make good use of it and start on a high note against the Chinese team, as well as expressing his confidence that this edition will be special in all respects.

              "We are a small country compared to China, we don’t have a lot of people, but we have a big heart and we know how to fix problems. Football is not only a sport of winning and losing, we also have to show respect to each other. I have to compliment the AFC and the organizers for everything. We are happy to be here, and it will be an honor for Tajikistan to play at the AFC Asian Cup," he said. 

              For his part, Aktham Nazarov, the Tajikistan national team player, expressed his hope to perform well in this edition of the Asian Cup finals, mentioning they are excited to participate in the Asian Cup finals for the first time in their history, and that they will do their best to perform at the desired level in the first match, which they must play with great concentration.

                 He pointed out that football in his country has developed over the past three years, adding that their participation in the Asian Cup confirms that they are on the right path and excited to demonstrate their capabilities. (QNA)