Daei criticizes national team performance

PTV - Legendary striker Ali Daei says poor preparation was the main cause for the Iranian soccer team's unsatisfactory performance against Syria.

“We have good attacking players but when a team plays without proper planning, the result cannot be satisfying,” the former Bayern Munich star told Iran Sports Press.

“We did not utilize the home game advantage with Syria; they played a logical game and gained what they wanted,” he said.

He also welcomed the appointment of Javier Clemente as Iran's national team coach, saying he should be given 'enough time and full authority to do the job. '

The last five games of the Melli (national) team have not been quite successful, with strikers failing to score a single goal.

Last week, the national team was held to a goalless play at home by Syria. It was the opening game of the third round qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup.

Daei, the holder of the world record for most international goals scored, is currently the coach of the Iranian league team Saipa.