Champion Mentality Encourages Jordan To 2023 Asian Cup Final

Jordanian coach Hussein Ammouta (middle-black), admits his team has the mentality of the champion (doc. AFC).

JAKARTA - Jordanian coach Hussein Ammouta is proud of the winning mindset in his team when he defeated South Korea 2-0 in the semifinals of the 2023 Asian Cup on Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

Goals from Yazan Al-Naimat and Musa Al-Taamari at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium secured the historic Jordanian final during their participation in the Asian Cup.

They will challenge one of the teams ever to win the Asian Cup, Qatar and Iran, in the top party.

"Congratulations to everyone who contributed to our victory. The players are our main weapon. They played heroic games throughout the tournament. Despite the injury, we managed to deliver significant achievements," Ammouta said on the AFC website. "Our players showed great initiative throughout the game. We agreed to start strong, taking advantage of the fact that South Korea has conceded eight goals in five games."

"It is very important to take advantage of our attacking abilities and take the initiative to attack, especially against tough opponents like them, who are known for their skilled players."

"We know that our opponents will strike back. Therefore, our focus remains on aggressive defensive tactics. However, it was our proactive approach and it was the emphasis on attacking games that made us a more effective team."

"We present the mindset of a champion, showing resilience and determination in every aspect of the game," said Ammouta again.

Ammouta actually admitted that he was worried about starting the game aggressively. You see, the efficiency in scoring goals in the middle of the first half is reduced.

Luckily, their patience and confidence paid off in the second half plus calm in defense which frustrated South Korea. "Initially there were concerns over the five missed chances. Such failures often led to someone conceding. However, our team remained calm after scoring a second goal, maintaining control of the game." "Today's win differs significantly from the results of our 2-2 series in the group stage against South Korea, especially in terms of our defensive tactics. I emphasize to the players the importance of suppressing their attackers, which they did effectively."

"Although there are variables beyond our control, it is important for the players to adapt to the conditions on the ground. Despite losing their chances, the team gives everything in defense and attack. We take advantage of this opportunity, know that we will lose nothing, and bear fruit." "Today's success is a collective effort with each individual contributing to victory. Our approach is not to give excessive respect to the opponent, but to play with confidence and determination. Their commitment to winning individual fights ultimately brings our victory," Ammouta said.

Jordan is just one step away from becoming the first winner of the Asian Cup. They will fight the winner of Iran vs Qatar.

The top match of the 2023 Asian Cup will be held at the Lusail Stadium on February 10, 2024.

Ammouta said he would take the time to prepare for the final.

"We are grateful for everyone's seriousness in carrying out their roles. With just three days of preparation until we play in the final, we have to take advantage of this time effectively," Ammouta said.