Mohamed Mohebbi praised the role Mehdi Taremi played in Iran’s 2-1 AFC Asian Cup quarter-final win against Japan on Saturday despite the striker being suspended. Iran will play Qatar in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
The 26-year-old Mohebbi was picked to replace Taremi in the starting line-up, scoring the equaliser that sparked Iran’s comeback win at the Education City Stadium, with the FC Rostov player eager to share how his teammate motivated him.
“I want to thank Mehdi Taremi, who is not only one of the best in Iran but one of the best in Asia,” said Mohebbi. “He talked with me for about half an hour because he wanted to help bring out my best qualities. This showed the union that we have within this national team.
“Special thank you to (head coach) Amir (Ghalenoei) and the staff for giving confidence and belief to me. Also the medical and masseuse team for the recovery that enabled us to perform this well after the short time from the win over Syria.”
Mohebbi came off the bench in Iran’s earlier four matches but Taremi’s red card against Syria meant a start for him against four-time champions Japan.
His goal in the 55th minute, off a smart pass from Sardar Azmoun, was not significant only for the match but also because it was the first goal Iran have ever scored against Japan at the AFC Asian Cup, with Team Melli unable to find a way through in four previous meetings at the continental showpiece.
“I’m very happy for the win and the performance. This match highlights the high quality within Asian football. I want to thank my teammates, everyone in the stadium and everyone back home. Hopefully we can continue this form to become champions of Asia so that we can make all Iranian fans proud and happy.”
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei believes Iran’s 2-1 victory over Japan in can be a turning point for the nation’s football. “Asian football should be happy with this match, and we should be proud of the performance of our players who gave everything for the fans,” said Ghalenoei, who had led Iran to the quarter-finals of the 2007 edition.
“I want to say thank you to everyone who supported us along the way, thanks to my family for everything they endured in these years. This match can be a turning point for Iranian football, not just for the senior national team, but also for the U23s, U19s and the whole football setup,” he added.