Mozaffar hails players’ commitment despite travel fatigue
Iran women’s futsal head coach Shahrzad Mozaffar was full of praise for her players following a 3-1 victory over hosts China on Saturday, saying they gave everything despite severe travel fatigue and a demanding schedule.
The victory marked Iran’s second successive win at the friendly tournament in China, following a 6-0 triumph over Hong Kong in their opening match.
“Our journey was extremely long. It took us around 24 hours from the time we left Iran until we arrived at the hotel. The players had limited time to rest before facing Hong Kong the following day. Despite their travel fatigue, they put in an excellent performance and secured a 6-0 victory,” she said.
“The game was entirely under our control, and we created numerous scoring opportunities. The players performed well in both defense and attack, and everyone got the chance to play. Only Fatemeh Rahmati missed the match due to a minor injury she had sustained during league action.”
Reflecting on the subsequent match against China, Mozaffar highlighted the demanding schedule, noting that the players had to compete on consecutive days following their lengthy journey.
“The gap between the two matches was very short, and the players had to play on consecutive days after a 24-hour journey. I believe they overcame not only their two opponents but also fatigue,” she said.
“We conceded early and were caught by surprise, but managed to finish the first half 1-1. We had some problems in the opening period, particularly in our defensive structure. We discussed those issues at halftime and provided the players with the necessary solutions. Fortunately, they implemented our instructions very well and did not allow the opposition to create any serious or dangerous chances in the second half,” she said.
“The second half was entirely under our control, and we could even have scored more than two additional goals. China resorted to the power-play system in the final four to five minutes, but our players defended resolutely and even managed to score once during that period.”
The Iranian coach was particularly pleased with her players’ commitment and team spirit throughout the tournament.
“I am genuinely satisfied with the players’ performances. Despite severe travel fatigue and the demanding schedule, they gave everything. Their work rate, commitment and self-sacrifice were admirable. They played wholeheartedly and for one another, providing a perfect example of a united and cohesive team. This unity and mutual support were evident both on and off the court,” Mozaffar said.
She also acknowledged the quality of the Chinese team, saying it had undergone considerable changes since last year’s Asian Cup.
“Almost half of their players are different from those who featured in the continental championship. Nevertheless, China are a very strong team in terms of physical strength, coordination in combination play and overall team structure. It is clear that a great deal of work has gone into preparing this team,” she added.
“We beat China 3-1 at the Asian Cup, but their current team is different and they are a very high-quality opponent. Considering that our own squad is a blend of young and experienced players who have not had much experience playing demanding matches together, I believe the players have successfully passed a difficult test at this stage of the tournament,” she said.