Zico signs for one year and is presented in Iraq.
The Brazilian coach began his work with a conversation with the athletes, already looking ahead to his debut on September 2nd, in the match against Jordan, for the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers.
After finalizing negotiations with the Iraqi Football Federation, Zico was introduced to the national team players this past weekend in Baghdad. The Brazilian, who signed a one-year contract, began his work with a conversation with the athletes, already looking ahead to his debut on September 2nd, in the match against Jordan for the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers.
"I know that Iraq has good quality players, I know many of you and I am here because I believe that we will be together at the 2014 World Cup, which will be in my country," Zico told the players, with the help of an interpreter. "I want you to dedicate yourselves and believe, as I do, that it is possible to reach the World Cup. We already have a game next week in the qualifiers and our work begins tomorrow [Sunday]."
Before the conversation, Zico was greeted by midfielder Hawar Mulla Mohamed, one of the most experienced players in the squad, with 99 appearances for the Iraqi national team. The player celebrated the Brazilian's arrival as manager of the team.
"It's even difficult to say what it means to have Zico here. All of us players are very happy with the possibility of being coached by a professional with his history in world football. It's certainly an extra incentive for the whole group and makes us more confident for this fight for a place in the World Cup," he commented.
Zico has only four days to prepare the Iraqi team for their opening match in the World Cup Qualifiers on the 2nd, in the city of Erbil. Following that, the team will face Singapore away from home on the 6th. The core of the team is composed of players who play in Iran and Qatar.