Syria scraped through their Group B opener against Indonesia but lived up to Mardakyan’s promise and delivered a much-improved display to secure a last-eight berth with a 3-0 triumph over India before drawing with Group B winners Korea Republic.

And as Syria enter the knockout stage, Mardakyan is well aware his side will need to continue their winning mentality at Pakhtakor Stadium against the Group A winners with a place at next year’s World Cup available for all four semi-finalists.

"We have worked hard to reach this point and we are looking to qualify for the World Cup," said Mardakyan.

"We have studied this team in the group stage and we have looked at their strong and weak points and we hope this will be successful. We have a daily meeting with the players so they know what to expect.

"We have improved in every game. Our preparation was not as good as we wanted but the spirit of the team helped us improve as the players want to win. To win two games and draw against Korea gives the players a lot of confidence."

Iran coach Ali Doustimehr has a fully fit squad at his disposal as they look to continue their impressive start to the tournament as only they and Australia recorded 100% records in the group stage after beating Bahrain, Uzbekistan and Singapore.

"The team is physically fit and importantly psychologically ready," he said.

"We have a very good team spirit and are ready to fight for the win and place in the next round and at the World Cup. Iranians always have a good mood and spirit and are always ready to fight.

"We have a good plan. We have watched Syria and have information about them, we hope our journey will not be ended."

Rayam Sadeghian, who scored in the opening day win over Bahrain, is fully rested and returns after sitting out the game against Korea with the quarter-final place already secured.

"I believe that our team is very good and are ready to play well and get a place at the World Cup," he said.

"Our team has a very strong spirit. We know our whole team has a lot of potential to win."