Lippi earns kudos from Queiroz

Iran head coach Carlos Queiroz is heaping praise on China counterpart Marcello Lippi ahead of their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, saying the man who guided Italy to the global title in 2006 is "good for Asian soccer."

Lippi took China's reins last October to revive the team's flagging fortunes. After battling Qatar to a scoreless draw in his first game in charge, the 68-year-old orchestrated a 1-0 home win over South Korea last Thursday.

With five points, China sits four back of the third-place playoff spot with four games remaining, and group leader Iran will be primed to extend its unbeaten streak in Tehran on Tuesday.

"Lippi has been everywhere in football and he will make China a stronger and more intelligent team," said Queiroz, whose side has yet to concede a goal in six matches.

"We know China will be well organized and compact on defense. We have to be patient in trying to break them down, but also careful of their counter-attacking."

After leaving Italy in 2010, Lippi had a successful two-and-half-year spell in charge of Chinese Super League powerhouse Guangzhou Evergrande before he was coaxed out of retirement last year.

Queiroz is delighted to see him back.

"It is good for Asian soccer that Lippi is here," the former Real Madrid coach said.

"Some of the best coaches working here can help raise the level and make Asia more competitive."

Reuters