Iran Aiming for Futsal World Cup Title: Hassanzadeh

Team Melli will start the campaign on Monday with a match against Venezuela in Group F.

Vahid Shamsaei’s team will meet Guatemala and France on September 19 and 22, respectively.

“Every team here must dream of winning the title. Without this dream, competition has no meaning. Brazil, Portugal and Argentina are always contenders,” Hassanzadeh said in an interview with FIFA.com.

“Our goal is to gain pride and honor for our people. We will go on to the court with all our heart and play in such a way that there will be no regrets. We've been training like this, we've been through tough times, and the World Cup is where you have to give your best performances. Iran is not easy opponent for any team. We have big dreams but we need to work hard,” he added.

“People in Iran love futsal. Every day and every night millions of people play futsal all over the country. They analyze our games like real experts and expect the national team to shine. We are the champions of Asia and winning another world title will surely give them huge joy. We will fight for this goal.

“What makes me happy is that the name of Iran is repeated with each of these records. I’m proud of the country, the people and the futsal players who give their all here. I hope that my presence in five World Cups will send the message to young players that there is no such thing as impossible, but that no-one gives it to you on a silver plate, you have to work hard for it. I’m happy to have the opportunity to experience this World Cup in Uzbekistan,” Hassanzadeh stated.