Syria have already ‘achieved a miracle’ in World Cup qualifying, says coach
Syria coach Ayman Al Hakim says his team have already achieved a miracle in World Cup qualifying.
The country has been gripped by civil war for six years but Syria have defied expectations to keep alive their hopes of a first appearance at the finals.
On Tuesday they face Australia in Sydney in the second leg of their play-off, with the tie level at 1-1.
“I say to our fans what we have achieved so far is not only an achievement, but a miracle,” said Al Hakim. “We will push with all our force to continue our journey.
“Our match with Australia in Sydney is difficult, and although we’ll be missing five players through injuries or suspension, we are used to playing outside of our land.”
The prize is a two-legged clash against Concacaf’s fourth-placed team — currently Panama — with the winners qualifying for Russia.
