Tasnim
20 Feb 2025, 17:36 GMT+10
The final Group C tie saw the four-time champion finish with a perfect nine points, scoring 11 goals and conceding only one to top its group.
Iranians back home were very curious about how we would fare against Uzbekistan, he said. They are very happy with our result because this is the first time weve beaten the defending champion so easily.
Im happy for my people but it's not finished yet for us but just starting.
Abdi said it was not necessary to win against Uzbekistan as Iran had already qualified for the knockout stage, adding that he rested nine regular players to ensure others gained valuable exposure.
We want to win against every team using every player, he said. This inspires them to perform better, and I congratulate all 23 for showing they are ready for this tournament.
Iran will meet the runner-up of Group D in the quarter-finals while Uzbekistan will play the top team.
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