Iraq, Jordan set for intense showdown

Iraq and Jordan are braced for a tough test when they meet in the AFC Asian Cup round of 16 at the Khalifa International Stadium today. The Lions of Mesopotamia head into the tie in impressive form, winning all three group stage matches – including against four-time winners Japan – while Jordan advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams.
Head coach Jesus Casas believes his Iraqi side have the quality to win the title, reminiscent of their triumph in the 2007 edition. “I think we are in the same position as in the beginning of the tournament. We are very confident after three matches; it was amazing to beat Japan. If we want to win the Asian Cup, we have to win four more matches. It won’t be easy, as there are strong teams but we are in a good position to win the title. We will fight to win this tournament,” said Casas.
“It’s going to be a very difficult match for both teams. Both have undergone challenging qualifications, and we share a similar style of play. We both want to win and Jordan won’t be easy opponents.We can win all matches if we give 200 percent effort in every game. In football, perfection is key and if we play a perfect match, winning is possible. However, mistakes can be costly as seen when Saudi beat Argentina (in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022). In football, anything is possible.”
Casas said his side will have the same attacking mindset as they did in the group stage. “Our style is very clear – we aim to be offensive, maintain control of possession, and create numerous chances. We won’t change our style. Against Japan, we tried to be offensive, and in the second half, they came back fighting. However, our approach remains clear – we want to attack.
“No, we are not the favourites; the favourites are Japan, Korea Republic and Islamic Republic of Iran. We are happy with what we have done, and the Iraqi players are proud of their performance. Jordan has a very good team, and one mistake can change the whole game. We must be careful.”
Despite having qualified as one of the four best third-placed teams, Jordan head coach Hussein Ammouta is optimistic about his team’s quarter-final chances. “We will face a very organised Iraqi team and we will try our best to win the match. Our focus is on the responsibilities and duties against Iraq, and we are determined to secure a victory. Iraq has good players - not only in attack but throughout the whole team,” said Ammouta.
“However, morale is very high, and everyone is united with big responsibilities on their shoulders. We have prepared very well, and our team is ready to give their best effort.”
Jordan have not defeated Iraq in their last five meetings, as well as losing 1-0 in their only previous encounter in the AFC Asian Cup - in the 2015 edition group stage but Ammouta promised an attacking approach. “No team that wants to win focuses solely on defence. We have a strong attack, and we aim to surprise Iraq. Of course, we want to strike a balance between both attacking and defensive aspects, paying attention to all the small details for a good performance in this challenging match.
“Our team has big aspirations. We’ve shown our true selves as a team and we aim to reach as far as we can, working hard to qualify for the next stage.We are actively working to strengthen our defence and limit the opponents’ spaces. I trust my team and defensive players.”