The Iranians edged Korea Republic 2-1 in Uzbekistan two years ago to claim their first trophy at this level.
However, they know they will have to be at their best if they are to emerge from a difficult Group B that also contains 2006 runners-up DPR Korea and Syria.
But Iran have been in formidable form in the run up to the tournament following an amazing run of just one defeat in some 25 games and though Akbar has faith in his side’s ability to claim a second successive title, he warned his players not to underestimate any of their opponents.
“We are very happy to be here but we must take things one game at a time and consider each opponent individually,” said Akbar (pictured).
“We had about 25 matches last year and we lost just one game against Korea Republic in Seoul…so I 100% believe we can win the championship.
"However, we have seven finals to play before we can claim the title.”
Oman coach Boubacar Sarr, meanwhile, feels his side could not have been handed a more difficult start to the tournament but knows they must take away a positive result against Iran if they are to go on to maintain hope of a place in the next round.
“Iran is a good team, just like DPR Korea and Syria are. It is our first match against them,” he said.
“We know it will be very difficult. Iran is a strong team but all we can do is try our best. It is very important to start well in a tournament.”
While Oman boast two titles at this level their last success came at the turn of the century and Sarr is determined to bring an end to his side’s barren run at the AFC U-16 Championship in recent years.
“We will try to do our best but we know it will be very difficult,” he added.
“We hope we can do well in this tournament because for me it is important for the future of the youth players to perform well here. That is why we are here and we are motivated to do well.”