Carlos Queiroz applauded his players in the aftermath of his team’s victory over the Latin American powerhouse side, Chile. The 2-0 win in St. Poulten Austria, was considered a surprise by most observers, despite Queiroz thinking otherwise.
When asked by a reporter if the result was flattering his side, Queiroz said “That win did not surprise me. My players are capable and all they had to do was to apply themselves and commit to play their best according to the game plan. I expected a good result, but NO, That win did not surprise me.” Quieroz said in post-match news conference.
“It was a great honor to defeat a team in the class of Chile. I must thank the Chileans for giving the opportunity to play them. This match was a good opportunity for Iran team to develop and progress.”
“I have also to acknowledge the great effort of all my players, for their performance, for their dedication and their resolve. They played well, fought for every ball , were totally disciplined without any sign of complacency or arrogance. I have never managed a group of dedicated players in my life like this present Team Melli.” Queiroz said in praise of the team that missed on a possible title when they lost on penalties in the AFC Asian Cup 2015 two months ago.
Queiroz sent a challenging message to the Ministry of Youth and Sport when he invited the people in charge to take much more care of this team after such a valuable result. “I hope that this win will increase their awareness that this team deserves more respect and care than they have been getting. “ Queiroz said
Asked about his resignation and any possibility of retracting it, the 62 years old Portuguese responded “As you know and have been informed by the head of FFIRI, I have submitted my resignation and that is irreversible. It was not my decision to discontinue working with Team Melli, the decision has been taken for me. A new set of personal have arrived at the federation and one of them does not think highly of my work and delivery. I can’t see how is it possible to world under such mindset and circumstances. I am just a coach and have limited authority and power on how things should work within the federation. I cannot even make major decisions regarding the future and prospect of the team.”
Carlos Queiroz also took the opportunity to express his extreme sorrow on the demise of the two Iranian journalist killed in the air crash south of France last Tuesday.
“On behalf of Team Melli, I want to dedicate this victory to the soul of the two Iranian journalists who should have been with us in this stadium. Perhaps they are not physically present, but their souls are here with us. We shall not forget them. My sincere condolences to their families. I also like to send my condolences to the families of all the air crash victims from wherever they are. It was such a tragedy, but life has to go on. “ Quieoz stated.
The Portuguese coach will be at the helm of Team Melli for one last time in the match against Sweden. A victory against the Swedish side, will guarantee to leave a permanent positive impression with the Team Melli fans worldwide.