Iraqi Trainers Express Concerns Against The Indonesian National Team In The First Match Of The 2023 Asian Cup

Jesus Casas is worried about facing the Indonesian national team in the inaugural match of Group D of the Asian Cup.

JAKARTA - Iraq will play the inaugural match of Group D of the 2023 Asian Cup against the Indonesian national team. The match will be held at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium on Monday, January 15, 2024, at 21.30 WIB.

Ahead of this inaugural match, Jesus Casas as Iraq's coach apparently had feelings of concern about the opponents to face.

He is wary of the now-developing Garuda Squad game, which he predicts will make his team struggling.

"They (Indonesia) are a national team that is developing and bringing players from Europe. They also have a chance (to win). However, we will also try hard," said Jesus at a press conference in Doha, Qatar, Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Iraq's concern over the Indonesian national team was also revealed by their captain, Osama Rashid. Rashid said that fighting Indonesia would be a tough match for the Mesopotamian Lion.

This was revealed by Rashid because he was sure that Indonesian players had cleaned up after losing 1-5 at a meeting in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in November 2023.

Rashid believes the Garuda squad has more solid preparations to deal with Iraq. In fact, now he also does not hesitate to call the Indonesian national team a dangerous opponent.

"Against them (Indonesia) it will be a great match because we have met them. We know how dangerous they are," said Rashid.

Meanwhile, these concerns do not want to be too burdensome. The reason is, Rashid said that Iraq had also made thorough preparations to show its best.

"We are ready and will try our best," said Rashid.

Indonesia vs Iraq match is the opening match for both teams. Both are believed to be performing optimally in order to win the first three points.

Especially for Group D, this is the second match after Japan appeared against Vietnam with a 4-2 victory.