Iran coach Carlos Queiroz is refusing to be distracted by Spain’s coaching calamities as his team prepare to kick off their 2018 World Cup campaign against Morocco in Saint Petersburg.
Spain and Queiroz’s native Portugal make up the rest of Group B but the 65-year-old insisted it would be “disrespectful” to bring up the sudden departure of Julen Lopetegui to Real Madrid.
“Morocco are a great team with great players and they are one of the favourites to move through to the second round, alongside Portugal and Spain.
“We are here to celebrate the sacrifices and commitments that we made over the last four years to be part of this competition, and we must remember that nothing will be decided after tomorrow’s game.”
And, ahead of the opener, the Frenchman sent a defiant message to those who consider the north African team – making their first World Cup finals appearance since 1998 – amongst the also-rans.
“Since we’ve got here, we shouldn’t be feeling the pressure too much. We have been giving a lot of thought to the Iran team and I think we have reached the right level in our preparations. It is vital to get points in the opening match.”