Alisher Nikimbaev, Uzbekistan (member of delegation)
"We can’t say we are given a kind draw but if you compare our group to other groups, at least it’s not that bad. It looks likely that we and Saudi Arabia will be the team to finish top two, but we can’t underestimate Singapore and Lebanon as we have had a few experiences against them. Saudi Arabia are unquestionably the most heavily favoured team in the group, however, we are confident to play against them as we defeated them in the quarter-finals of the 2004 Asian Cup. Although we lost to them 2-0 in the recent Asian Cup, we played a balanced game and created more chances."


Malek Moaaz, Saudi Arabia (Player)
"Some people might think we are the only candidate in our group but we should never underestimate our opponents. Uzbekistan are a good team but you have to admit that Lebanon and Singapore should be no match for us. We are one of the best sides in the continent and we should not worry about reaching the second round of the qualifiers. Our fans expect us to reach the World Cup finals as we did in the previous four editions and I hope we will meet their ambitions."

Emile Rustom (Lebanon coach)
"In football these days there is nothing impossible. All the teams look forward to the World Cup because it’s the biggest showcase in the game. All the teams would love to play in the competition and we will give our best to play our role. From the seedings, we expected that we would have to play against a big team in the continent and we must prepare very well for the qualifiers. If we make it to the next round then this will be the best achievement for us in our history. We have already asked the Lebanese FA to prepare friendly matches for us and they have contacted nine countries in the region to prepare several matches before the start of the qualifiers."