Stephen and the Media

FIFA World Cup 2006 Website - 6th July 2006

Constantine reflects on Asian shortcomings

A former coach of India and Nepal, Englishman Stephen Constantine has spent the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ analysing events in Germany for the Indian television network Times Now. Here Constantine, a FIFA Instructor who spent the 2005/06 season coaching at Millwall in the English Championship, gives his verdict on the four Asian teams' performances in Germany.

The Asian sides in Germany did not perform as well as I had expected, but perhaps the expectations were too high after what happened at Korea/Japan 2002. For me, Japan were a little unlucky not to have gone through from their group but a mad last ten minutes saw them wilt under Australian pressure in their first match. Overall, they lacked the killer touch and though their approach play was good they always seemed to make the wrong decision with the final ball.

Korea Republic held the ball well, and passed it well, again until it came to the final ball, but they lacked the flair and ability to do the unexpected at crucial moments. Their willingness to run, fight and chase every ball was great to see. Much like in Korea last time out they showed in flashes what they are capable of, but like the Japanese were unable to transfer possession into goals.

Iran for me were a major disappointment, not because of their results but because of the manner in which they lost the games. They didn’t seem to think they belonged at the World Cup and for me had too many players who didn’t seem sufficiently motivated.

Saudi Arabia managed a point against Tunisia but again they didn’t really perform. I think in the Saudis’ case more than in that of the other Asian countries, it was very clear that their players need to get more exposure to football outside the Kingdom, and on regular basis.

I agree with AFC President Mr Mohamed Bin Hamam that we need to make the national leagues in Asia stronger and more competitive. I think the introduction of the AFC Champions League is a step in the right direction but it must also be the objective of the national associations to improve domestic leagues. Once these are stronger, this will enable more players to go and play in Europe, which course will have a knock-on effect on national teams and on domestic football. The ability is there, it just needs to be harnessed properly, and provided with the right outlets.

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