Reuters: Iran got their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign off to a disappointing start when they were held to a 0-0 draw by part-timers Syria on Wednesday. TEHRAN, Feb 6 (Reuters) – Iran got their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign off to a disappointing start when they were held to a 0-0 draw by part-timers Syria on Wednesday.
The three-times Asian Cup winners failed to score for a fifth successive game, despite being at full strength and having the advantage of their imposing Azadi stadium.
Iran, three-times World Cup qualifiers, are still without a coach, with former Spain boss Javier Clemente stalling on signing a contract.
Surprise third round qualifiers Syria ditched their Italian coach Antonio Cabrini last month after failing to secure funding for his salary.
Iran and Syria contest the all-Middle East Group Five with the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, who play later on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi. (Writing by Martin Petty in Bangkok, editing by Trevor Huggins)
