Women’s Football Coach Jafari Proud of Iran

Having lost 3-1 to Lebanon on Matchday Four, only victory against Jordan would see Iran qualify and the team rose to the occasion with a 2-1 triumph to seal a second successive appearance on the continental stage.

“I am really happy that we were able to make the hearts of the Iranian people happy. Qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup was not easy,” said Jafari.

“We entered the competition with difficult conditions, intensive camps, logistical restrictions and a lot of psychological pressure, but my players fought with all their might and performed beyond expectations.

“The players not only showed high technical quality, but also showed that they are mentally strong and motivated at the level of a great team. This team deserves to be seen.”

Despite the euphoria of reaching the Finals, the experienced head coach said even more work must be put in to ensure that Iran - at the very least - better the group stage showing of 2022.

“This qualification is not the end of the road; it is the beginning of a new season. We must have a more detailed plan to have a strong presence in the final stage.

“This team have the capacity to be seen, grow, and compete with Asian powers. I hope the support continues so that we can be a worthy representative of Iranian women's football in Asia.”

Jordan head coach David Nascimento did not hide his disappointment as his side only needed to avoid defeat to secure progress.

Conceding early in the second half to Sara Didar before a breakaway effort from Negin Zandi made it a mountain for Jordan to climb, and Fatemeh Amineh’s late own goal was a mere consolation as the West Asian side missed out.

“We were the better team the whole game,” said Nascimento. “They waited for counter attacks to score the goals but that’s the game, the better team doesn’t always win.

“This came really hard for the players because we were looking forward to winning the game. I’m really disappointed and the players even more but we have to recover from this.”