Iraq manager Emad Mohammed expressed pride in his young squad following a 1-1 draw with Thailand in the AFC U23 Asian Cup. The result leaves Group D finely balanced, with Iraq on two points heading into the final matchday. Mohammed highlighted the significant effort from a team featuring many players born in 2005, who have integrated well despite the absence of several senior figures.
Iraq manager Emad Mohammed expressed pride in his young squad following a 1-1 draw with Thailand in the AFC U23 Asian Cup. The result leaves Group D finely balanced, with Iraq on two points heading into the final matchday. Mohammed highlighted the significant effort from a team featuring many players born in 2005, who have integrated well despite the absence of several senior figures.
The coach also identified areas requiring improvement from the performance. He acknowledged that his side failed to consistently exploit defensive spaces left by their opponents. Mohammed stated that addressing tactical execution and correcting defensive errors will be crucial as Iraq prepares for a decisive final group match against Australia, where a victory would secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Thailand's head coach, Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, was satisfied with earning a point but noted his team's need for greater efficiency in front of goal. He pointed to numerous chances created after halftime that were not converted until their late equalizer. While pleased with the overall spirit and performance, he conceded mistakes were still present.
The draw keeps Thailand's knockout stage hopes alive, leaving them with one point in the group. Thawatchai emphasized that the team still has a chance to reach the quarter-finals, but it hinges on a vital victory against group leaders China PR in their final fixture on Wednesday.
