Queiroz Voices Opposition to Iran-Lebanon Match after Bombings in Beirut
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The head coach of the Iranian national soccer team, Carlos Queiroz, voiced his opposition to decision to hold the match between Iran and Lebanon after deadly bomb blasts near the Iranian embassy in Beirut killed 23 people and injured 146 others.
According to a report by the Iranian Football Federation website, Queiroz called today’s bombing in the Lebanese capital as “very sad”, and voiced his sympathy with the families of the victims of today’s explosions.
Queiroz said the atmosphere was not suitable for the match and said it should be canceled.
“I reiterate that this decision (to hold Iran-Lebanon match) is wrong and, personally, I am not agree with it. Since we have no other choice but to play the match, there would be no room for enjoying football and celebration due to the incident that has happed today.”
He added that security measures cannot be an answer to all questions, and added that the organizers should accept the responsibility for their decision.
Iran is to play Lebanon in the AFC Asian Cup qualifier later today.
Group B leader Iran will face Lebanon in Beirut and needs just a single point to book a place in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.
This comes after two consecutive explosions hit near Iran’s embassy in Beirut and left 23 people dead and 146 other wounded. According to Tasnim dispatches, the blasts and the related developments have overshadowed everything in the Lebanese capital.
Large numbers of security forces have been stationed near the Iranian national soccer team’s hotel and army vehicles have escorted the Iranian players to the stadium.
Earlier, a source close to the Iranian national team told Tasnim that Iran’s head coach is concerned about players’ morale and has also asked for the cancellation of the match.
