And Shahid Mansouri coach Reza Lak is optimistic. At 35, he looks as fit as his wards, and sounded confident of a back-to-back triumph for Iran. In fact, the courage of his convictions must have prompted him not to sign any professional player for the tournament even after knowing that his rivals, including strong title challengers Nagoya Oceans, are relying on foreigners to make the difference.
"It's a great feeling to manage Shahid Mansouri in this championship, where you're up against the cream of Asian futsal. We know everyone rates us one of the favourites. But we don't want to get carried away. The players are aware of their job on hand. The most important thing is to approach it step by step and put up the best performance against every opponent, irrespective of their status. At the moment, I'm concentrating only on the group matches. We must play our natural game and we're confident of doing that," said 35-year-old Reza.
Asked why he decided against recruiting any foreign player, the Iranian said, "Our national League is as good as any other in the world and we believe our players are as competent as any player outside. We've former, current and future Iranian internationals featuring in our lineup. In fact, there're several others who're worth getting a call. Moreover, I decided not to disturb the combination that won the national league. But I believe we've selected the best team, fully aware of the magnitude of such a tournament."
Reza said Iranian futsal was on the right track, but felt it could be made better.
"I think the level of Iranian futsal is pretty good. We're progressing in the right direction too. Still we can improve the level a lot. We need to be lot more organinsed in running the game and must make earnest efforts to export as many players as possible to foreign Leagues," said the coach.