Shoja Khalilzadeh admitted that Iran improved as the match progressed against Nigeria, but acknowledged that their slow start ultimately proved costly in the defeat.
Team Melli suffered a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in an international friendly game on Friday, as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Iran are participating in a mini four-nation tournament alongside Jordan and Costa Rica, who played out a 2-2 draw in the other encounter, with all games holding in Antalya, Turkey.
The Asian side started the game slowly, with Nigeria capitalizing on their poor start to take the lead in the sixth minute through Paris FC winger Moses Simon.
Related: Iran coach hails Nigeria’s quality after friendly defeat
The Super Eagles had over chances to score in the encounter, before doubling their lead in the second half through Akor Adams.
However, Iran improved and grew into the game, scoring through captain Mehdi Taremi to half the deficit, although they could not muster an equalizer as the game ended 2-1 in favour of the African giants.
Iran will compete against Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with their opening game to hold against the latter on June 15.
Khalilzadeh blames poor start for Nigeria defeat
Speaking after the match, Khalilzadeh who made his 53rd appearance for Team Melli, blamed their poor start for the defeat and urged for improvement in their next outing against Costa Rica.
“It was a good game, and thank God we were able to play well. Some of our players were out of playing condition for a month, but the national team was tested thoroughly against Nigeria”, the experienced defender stated.
“As the game went on, we improved, and I hope we have an even better performance in the next match against Costa Rica. After a month when the players were out of playing condition, we performed very well against Nigeria.
“God willing, the match against Costa Rica will be much better than the game against Nigeria”, Khalilzadeh continued.
The 36-year-old also vowed to improve on his display in the coming games ahead of the World Cup in the summer.
“I shouldn’t talk about this myself, I hope the national team coach is satisfied. I will do my best in the upcoming games.”, Khalilzadeh concluded.
Iran will play their second match of the mini tournament against Costa Rica on Tuesday, hoping for a win to boost their preparations ahead of the coming World Cup.
