Bangkok: Mongolia head coach Erdene-Ochir Sandagdorj believes his side’s qualification for the AFC U-20 Futsal Championship quarter-finals represents an historical moment for the country.
The talented East Asians booked their place in the last eight thanks to a 3-1 win over China on Saturday, and irrespective of the outcome of Monday’s meeting with Uzbekistan, Sandagdorj is adamant that the future for Mongolian football is decidedly bright.
“Qualifying for the knockout phase means so much to us,” declared the ecstatic 54-year-old coach.
“Today, we started a new chapter in the history of Mongolian football. This shows that our youth has so much talent, and that with more development, Mongolia can achieve so much more.”
“Mentally we were not as prepared as China, who, although they have lost a few games, put on a great performance. However, our performance today was the team’s best, better than all our previous matches in the Group Stage.”
Sandagdorj is, however, not underestimating the challenge his side are set to face when they come up against an Uzbekistan side which finished top of Group C thanks to three wins and a draw.
“Before this, we only concentrated on the matches ahead, we will start our preparation to face Uzbekistan today. They are fierce opponents, and it would be our mistake to underestimate anyone at this point.
“Nevertheless, after today’s match, the team is excited, ready and confident to go into the quarter-finals.”
Photo: AFC
Source: the-afc.com