FATORDA: African Cup of Nations Champions Mali clash with Asian AFC Champs Iraq in the vital FIFA U-17 World Cup pre-quarterfinal clash at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Tuesday.

The Group B runners-up Mali boast a strong and hardworking team which saw them beat New Zealand, Turkey in Group encounters before going down fighting against Paraguay 2-3. The African side scored eight goals conceding just four in the three matches, the least in their group. 

However, playing against the Asian giants Iraq, Mali coach said they can’t take the match lightly and expects it to be a great match.

“Our team has played a good brand of football. I’m expecting a great match tomorrow, from now on there in no more speculation. We fully respect Iraq as they are a strong team but we hope to win tomorrow’s match,” said Mali coach Jonas Komla while addressing a pre-match conference at Fatorda Stadium on Monday.

The last edition’s runners-up performances have a unique style of play which possess attacking play with pace making it even easier to break their defence. Their top goal scorer  — Lassan N Diaye — who has managed to score three in three games is well supported by Salam Jiddou and Siaka Sidibe. Their attacking approach and the stability in defence lines helps to built on to their confidence. 

According to their coach, their past record and performance also influences them in this edition easing the pressure off his team.

“The fact that we did well in Chile and that we are African champions, it influences  work and builds up positive pressure and environment in the team. Our ambition is still the same. Nothing has changed,” stated Jonas.

Despite encountering problem which hampered their training session in Goa, Mali coach said such things happen in football and is optimistic of the match ahead.

“We are not dissatisfied with the preparations. Nothing changes our philosophy and objectives, we face frequent problems in Africa too but nothing changes our philosophy.” conceded Jonas.

Iraq qualified ahead of Mexico from Group F securing four points which saw them beat Chile 3-0 and draw with Mexico 1-1. The Asian champs lost 0-4 against England in their last group tie.

With no chance for slightest mistake in the knock out clash, Iraq coach looks to freshen up their tactics against a stronger side Mali.

“We will change our tactics. We will play a better game than what we played against England. Mali players are physically better than our players. We will give our best and hope to qualify for the next round,” stated Iraq coach Qahtan Al Rubaye.

Making their second appearance in the tournament, Qahtan colts have made history as they qualified for the first time in the knock out phase. Earlier Qahtan handed his side their first Asian cup. 

“It’s an achievement for us to make it to round of 16. We will give our best,” said a jubilated Qahtan.