Uzbekistan Optimistic Of Victory In World Cup Qualifying Thursday

MELAKA (Malaysia), March 23 (Bernama) -- Uzbekistan are positive of chalking up a win against Syria in their sixth Group A match of the fourth 2018 World Cup qualifying round scheduled at Hang Jebat Stadium Thursday night. Uzbekistan chief coach, Samvel Babayan said a win on Thursday is important to ensure the team strengthen their chances to the World Cup finals. "Even though our key players cannot play tomorrow after sustaining injuries, it is not an excuse for us not to give our best," he told reporters via an interpreter at the pre-match media conference here Wednesday. Meanwhile Syrian chief coach, Ayaman Hakeem said with their high team morale, his squad would work hard for a win tomorrow despite facing a strong side. "We will play for a win if we want to qualify for World Cup finals," he said. Uzbekistan are currently in third place in group A with six points while Syria are in fourth spot with five points after five matches. -- BERNAMA