Shenyang – For the first time since 1997, China and Iran will play against one another in a world cup qualifying match on 6 September. Iran are coming off a 2-0 home win against Qatar while China lost 3-2 to South Korea in Seoul.
There is a lot of excitement for the Chinese supporters as it is the first time since 2002 qualifying that they get to see their national team in action in the final round of qualifying.
The Iranians were victorious in both meetings with China during qualifying for the 1998 World Cup. The first meeting between the two sides in Dalian was a classic that saw China up 2-0 early in the second half but then were hit by an onslaught of four goals from TM. The 4-2 victory was the perfect start for the Iranians to open the final round of qualifying on 13 September 1997.
Two months later at the Azadi Stadium, a full house of loud supporters cheered Iran to a 4-1 rout over China.
Iran and China have not been known to be fierce rivals in Asian football but Chinese head coach Gao Hongbo is already expecting his squad to defeat TM.
The Iranians will be without the services of Ashkan Dejagah, who is dealing with an injury. It is a big loss for Team Melli but at the same time it presents an opportunity for another player to step up and make a name for himself in a very important qualifier.
Many Iranian fans have been quick to point out that right back Ramin Rezaeian of Persepolis was far from impressive against Qatar on 1 September.
Perhaps is it time for Vouria Ghafouri to get the start at right back or will head coach Carlos Queiroz move over Pejman Montazeri to right back and bring in Morteza Pouraliganji at center back next to Jalal Hosseini?
Whatever the plan is for Queiroz, he must make adjustments because the Chinese coaching staff will be ready to exploit any possible weaknesses in Iran’s defense.
Football experts have been quick to point out that the Iranians have the physical advantage over the Chinese players but it is worth noting that the Chinese will be looking to beat the Iranians on the counterattack.
Expect Carlos Queiroz to employ an ultra defensive strategy to start the match as the Iranians will look to wear down China at the Shenyang Olympic Stadium.