Bashar Resan, player of the Iraqi national team and Al-Qatar Sports Club, highlighted the significance of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 for the Iraqi team, noting that the Lions of Mesopotamia are coming strong to the continental tournament, thanks to the continuous improvement in the team's performance, which includes young players alongside seasoned professionals, many of whom play in European and regional leagues. He also discussed the effective role of the coaching staff led by Spanish coach Jesus Casas and the impact of the new Iraqi Premier League season on the players' performance, which represents a significant addition to the Iraqi team.
Resan explained that the presence of fans is a crucial factor in supporting the team during the anticipated tournament and expected wide support from fans who look forward to seeing a team that has previously lifted the championship trophy as Asian Cup champions in 2007, as well as winning the latest Gulf Cup edition held for the first time in Basra city. In this context, Resan stated: "As we are used to from the fans who attend in large numbers and provide us with unprecedented support in every match, I expect the stands to be filled during the Lions of Mesopotamia's matches, which enjoy immense popularity among the fans who still remember the taste of victory when Iraq won the championship in 2007 for the first time in its history."
He added: "I look forward to media support and broad backing from fans, as they are a vital element in the team's success and a source of inspiration and motivation for the players." Regarding his expectations for the Iraqi team's performance in the upcoming Asian tournament, he said: "It is difficult to predict the tournament results; there could be surprises. We will be playing in a group with Indonesia, Japan, and Vietnam, which are notably developed teams, and we have tough matches ahead, but I hope we live up to the responsibility."
As for his predictions regarding the performance level of the participating teams, he pointed out that the upcoming sports event features strong teams and intense competitions that attract significant fan attendance and wide media coverage, especially following the impressive success of organizing the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and Qatar's hosting of two previous Asian Cup editions. He stated that Japan and South Korea are the favorites to win the title, but surprises are always present in major tournaments. He expressed hope that at least two Arab teams would reach the semifinals.
Resan concluded his remarks by saying fans can expect an ideal atmosphere that will rekindle the wonderful experience they had during the Qatar 2022 World Cup, with thrilling matches, world-class stadiums, and various entertaining and educational events, praising the country's efforts to facilitate fans' attendance to support their teams. He continued: "It is not new for Qatar to ease the entry of fans to support their teams and enhance the exciting atmosphere of the upcoming tournament. Fans will enjoy a delightful time that brings back the remarkable moments of the Qatar 2022 World Cup."
Qatar is preparing to host the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 for the third time, a record number of times it has hosted the continental tournament, having previously organized it in 1988 and 2011. A total of twenty-four of the best teams in Asia will compete for the championship title, with 51 matches taking place across nine stadiums from January 12 to February 10, 2024.
