UAE U-23 Coach Broli Lauds Players for Resilience against Iran
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The United Arab Emirates’ head coach Marcelo Broli praised his players’ resilience despite a 3-2 defeat to Iran on Tuesday, a result that still secured the West Asian side’s place at the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.
Iran’s first-half blitz in Abu Dhabi ensured that they topped Group I to return to the Finals after missing the 2024 edition, while the UAE advanced as one of the four best runners-up.
“We knew we were in for a tough match against a strong opponent. In the first half, we weren't up to scratch and conceded three goals,” said Broli.
“But the players were able to regroup, come back, and demonstrate a fighting spirit in the second half to try to turn the result around,” the Uruguayan coach said.
The UAE’s late rally fell short, but with six points collected from their earlier wins, Broli stressed that the main objective was achieved.
“The match wasn't easy. Our ambition was to qualify, and that's what we achieved, despite the bitterness of the loss. We had hoped to win the third match but we are happy to have qualified,” he said.
The draw for the Finals is scheduled for October 2, 2025.
