Tehran Times - Former Iran national football team striker Vahid Hashemian has applauded the performance of Team Melli against Bolivia.
On Tuesday, Iran defeated Bolivia 2-1 in a friendly match held in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.
“It was the first time I attended a football match at the Azadi Stadium after I quit international football. It was very joyful. Iran played better in the first half and showed an attacking football. The strikers made many chances in the first half and could have scored more goals,” Hashemian said in an interview with Iran Students News Agency (ISNA).
“Carlos Queiroz is an experienced coach and I believe that he made the best decision in the 2018 World Cup to defend against Spain and Portugal. But in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Team Melli have to play attacking football.
Ex-Bayern Munich striker said Iran and Japan are favorites to win the AFC Asian Cup.
“Iran have a chance to win the title but Japan also are capable of winning the title after their shining performance in Russia,” Hashemian stated.
Hashemian has made 50 appearances for Iran national football team from 1998 to 2009 and scored 15 goals.