Ivankovic focusing on 2nd round passage

I really like his positive mentality. I also hope we’ll be playing an attacking game in Germany. That is what it seems like he has in mind from his comments and player selections.

Posted from  United States

I agree. I think in the next few weeks, the real Branko will show up! IMHO he has been extremely concerned about getting fired at the last minute (Remember Ivic?). One he gets comfortable with his own situation, you will see him talk more and more freely. He has already started doing that.

Posted from  United States

If that’s true (concerned about being fired), then he might say things like that just to boost his image! I was hoping he really means what he says (as having his mind set on 2nd round)! You know you got to aim high to accomplish anything at all.

Why do you think he is under perssure of being fired?

Posted from  United States

No, I think he is feeling the pressure lifting. Iranian media treated him very badly in the last two years. Now he is out of Iran and will not be back until after the WC, if ever.

I honestly believe Iran has a very good chance of goging to the next run. BUT, it all hinges on the very first game

Posted from  United States

I like think Branko is a competitor and wants Team Melli to do well. He stands to gain more by Iran showing well and passing into the second round. The friendly matches will be a view into the team’s possibilities.

Posted from  United States

Exactly, and I think that is apoint that is lost on most critics. Team Melli does well, so will Branko ($$$$)

Posted from  United States

By the way, that is the way it should be. Many coaches land big contracts after the World Cup. Branko has paid his dues and deserves to move on to bigger and better things.

Posted from  United States

have you guys forgotten that iran has to beat Mexico or Portugal to go On..
and that seems likely. with all of the injuries, i will love to see them go past the first round, but let’s be realistic. mexico is very strong, Portugal has great coaching. I predict a bad start for Iran.. Mexico 3 iran 1. Mexico’s defense is one of the strongest in the WC.

Posted from  United States

Mexico’s defense is a tough nut to crack. The question is has Branko come up with a strong enough offensive punch and does Team Melli have the playmaking its going to take to overcome Mexico. That’s one reason these upcoming friendly games might be a view into Iran’s chances.

Posted from  United States

Exactly right. Although, I will not make any bold predictions in favor of Iran (I’ll do that five minutes before the kickoff!), I honestly think Mexico fans should not take Team Melli lightly.

I think there is a tendency amonghst Central and South American fans to dismiss team that are not from Europe or South America. I hope Mexican players share this view with their fans! If they do, they are in for a big surprise.

Posted from  United States

Great job guys…

Posted from  Ukraine

the more i watch brasil play the least chance of survival of the firt round the teams from f goup has, but the chance of brasil has to win the cup this year is 1 of 3 .Spain alone hold a great deffence but i guess it’s a little to early to tell caouse the first round don’t mean nothing. but I know one thing brasil will not give mercy after after the 2nd round..lol..see you all at the after party

Posted from  Canada