AFC Women’s Asian Cup:
Qanbari vows ‘utmost effort’ but tempers expectations for Iran
Iran captain Zahra Qanbari has pledged that her side will give their “utmost effort” at the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup, while cautioning against unrealistic expectations as Team Melli prepare to navigate a formidable group in Australia.
Making only their second appearance in the continental showpiece, Iran have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Australia, South Korea, and the Philippines.
Team Melli will open their campaign against South Korea — runners-up in the previous edition — at Gold Coast Stadium on March 2. They will then face the hosts, who reached the semifinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil, at the same venue three days later.
Iran conclude the group stage against 2022 semifinalists the Philippines on March 8. The top two teams from each of the three groups, along with the two best third-placed sides, will advance to the quarterfinals.
With the tournament fast approaching, Qanbari offered a candid assessment of Iran’s prospects during a final press conference before the squad’s departure from Tehran, reiterating the team’s determination despite the odds.
“We cannot expect this team to advance from the group stage,” Qanbari said. “We face a very difficult task, having been drawn against extremely strong opponents. However, we will give our utmost effort and aim to achieve the best possible results.”
Iran will be without prolific winger Negin Zandi in Australia after she sustained a ligament injury while on club duty with Bam Khatoon. Still, Qanbari expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and unity.
“The national team is a blend of experienced players and promising young talents, and there is a very positive atmosphere within the squad,” she said. “We have had good preparation and will strive to deliver strong performances.”
The captain also underlined the importance of long-term development, framing the Asian Cup as both a competitive challenge and a valuable learning opportunity for emerging players.
“We must support these young players so they can achieve success in the future,” she added.
Head coach Marziyeh Jafari echoed her captain’s measured outlook, acknowledging the challenges surrounding the team’s preparation.
“When I accepted the national team role last May, few believed I would take on the responsibility given our limited preparation time,” said Jafari, who was appointed last April. “I carefully considered whether I could truly help the team under such conditions. With faith and hard work, we have moved forward.”
Managing expectations ahead of a daunting group stage, Jafari emphasized Iran’s underdog status.
“No one expected this team to qualify for the Asian Cup, and we cannot expect miracles in the finals,” said the Asian Women’s Coach of the Year.
Rather than focusing solely on immediate results, Jafari stressed the need for a long-term vision for the growth of women’s football in Iran, confirming that plans are already in motion to build a sustainable future.
Iran secured their place in the finals in dramatic fashion last July, defeating Jordan 2-1 in a must-win Group A qualifier to top the standings on head-to-head criteria.