HSV: This is how Mehdi Mahdavikia wants to make it to the Olympics in 2024 with Iran – 2nd Bundesliga

As a footballer, Mehdi Mahdavikia (44) was a folk hero in Iran, took part in the 1998 and 2006 World Cups and played a total of 110 international matches. Now the former HSV star (263 competitive games with 34 goals between 1999 and 2007) is trying to lead his country to the Olympics in Paris in 2024 – as coach of the U21s.

BILD: How do you see the opportunities?

Mahdavikia: “I think we have a good chance of achieving our big goal.”

BILD: What are the first measures like?

Mahdavikia: “We are currently screening 60 talents from whom we will put together a 23-man squad.”

BILD: Time is of the essence …

Mahdavikia: “That’s correct. Qualifying games for the Asian championship are coming up soon. The opponents are Nepal, Lebanon, Tajikistan. “

BILD: But completely different calibers are waiting on the way to the Olympics, right?

Mahdavikia: “Yes. The big associations in Asia like Japan, South Korea or Australia. And only three teams will qualify for Paris. But I am not afraid. We have very good guys with us, we will work hard for our goal. “

BILD: You have reinforcements from Europe with you …

Mahdavikia: “My assistant coach is John Lammers, the uncle of the Frankfurt striker Sam. Timo Rosenberg (St. Pauli / Hanover, ed.) Is there as an athletics coach. “

BILD: And how does your future work at HSV look like?

Mahdavikia: “When I am in Hamburg, I will continue to be on the pitch as an individual trainer for the youth.”

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