Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
WORLD CUP 2018 THE MESSI OF IRAN: RONALDO DOESN’T SCARE ME
FACT FILE
THE striker described as the Iranian Messi has insisted he does not fear star-studded Spain or Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in Group B.
Rubin Kazan’s Sardar Azmoun must first negotiate a tough Morocco team today, whose coach Herve Renard has twice lifted the Africa Cup of Nations.
Iran have to win the opener to give themselves a chance with games to follow again the superpowers boasting three European Championships and a World Cup between over the last 10 years.
But 23-year-old Azmoun – who has scored 23 goals in 32 games for Iran to generate Premier League interest – insists he has no fears. He said: “I’m seriously not scared. If there’s only one forward, if I’m there or if I’m not there. I for one, do not fear them. I am seriously saying this.”
Azmoun made the claim in the build-up to the tournament but he has the impressive statistics to suggest he will do himself justice.
The marksman was drafted into the Iran set-up four years ago after the country failed to get out of their World Cup group in Brazil. He has since proven himself to be a key player and has attracted widespread admiration for his aerial ability, creativity and composure in front of goal.
Coach Carlos Queiroz has seen Iran concede just once in their 10 qualifying games and is insistent that his men can reach the knockout stages at their fifth attempt despite a sanctions controversy.
Earlier this week the former Manchester United assistant coach revealed his anger at Nike after they refused to supply boots to his players for the World Cup due to the US sanctions currently in place against the country.
The Iranian players have been buying their own boots, and Queiroz hit back, saying: “It has been a source of inspiration for us.”