Rajabi Lauds Players for Fighting Till the End against Al Hilal
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Foolad was able to neutralize Al Hilal’s change in tactics, but head coach Hamid Reza Rajabi lauded his team and admitted that his side was eventually overpowered by the defending AFC Champions League holder in quarterfinals tie on Thursday.
Moussa Marega scored the sole goal of the match in the 87th minute in Doha’s Al Janoub Stadium.
“We had analyzed Al Hilal before the match and expected them to play in a certain way. However, they changed their tactics... I have to give credit to my players though as they were able to adapt and were in control (in the first half),” said Rajabi.
Al Hilal, however, upped its tempo in the second half and Rajabi said that ultimately proved to be the difference.
“Al Hilal is a powerful team with many good players and it delivered in the end. However, if we had concentrated, we could have won this match but I am proud as we fought till the end,” the Iranian team's coach added.
“Despite the result, we have shown Asia over the last two years how worthy we are as a team. We showed we are a very tough team and for this, I must say thank you to (former head coach) Javad Nekounam," he stated.
“It was his guidance which helped Foolad reach where we have. As for my future (as head coach), I leave it to the club to decide,” Rajabi concluded.
