AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023/ Iraq's Coach: Friday’s Match Against Japan is Pivotal to Qualify for Round of 16

Doha, January 18 (QNA) - Coach of the Iraqi national team, Jesus Casas aims to win Friday's match against Japan that will be held at Education City Stadium within Group D's second round of matches of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.
    Casas stated Thursday that the match will surely be difficult as they will face one of the best teams in Asia. Regardless of this, he has the most confidence in his team to do everything they can and deliver a great performance.
    He expressed his joy for the support received from the Iraqi people and the team's goal is to make them happy in all matches played. They are working hard with the rest of the technical staff to ensure the delivery of the required level and achieve the desired results.
    The importance of the Japan match may require a change in the lineup and method of play in order to surpass the group stage, Casas added.
    Iraqi national team coach said his team has some injuries but will be prepared to face Japan before the start of the match. He said that player Saad Natiq would be ready to play the match while Osama Rashid had to leave the camp due to family circumstances.
    Iraqi national team player Ibrahim Bayesh said regarding facing Japan that the match will be difficult, and the team's goal is to perform at a good level and please the fans.
    Bayesh sees that the match requires great physical effort because the Japanese team has great skill, speed and a strong offensive lineup. (QNA)