Head coach Carlos Queiroz has targeted taking Iran into the second round of the 2018 World Cup, as reported by Reuters.
The former Real Madrid and Portugal coach has sought to balance between young players such as Sardar Azmoun and Alireza Jahanbaksh, and the experience of veterans Ashkan Dejagah and Jalal Hosseini.
Since taking over the post in April 2011, Queiroz has freshened up his squad with more Europe-based players than any previous Iran side.
In the 2018 World cup qualification campaign, the Portuguese frequently used three players who play for a Russia club outfit, including Rubin Kazan’s Azmoun and central midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi and fullback Milad Mohammdi. Dutch Eredivisie players’ Jahanbaksh and Reza Ghoochannejhad also played a vital part the Team Melli.
Meanwhile, Queiroz has kept World Cup veterans Ashkan Dejagah and Jalal Hosseini involved in the nation’s fifth appearance at the finals
