Antar hails Lebanon’s best ever squad

Lebanon captain Roda Antar spoke to FIFA’s official website (fifa.com) ahead of next month’s crucial away match to Qatar, and the Lebanese was full of praise for the current side. The Cedars are still in contention to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in the nation’s history. “I have been with the national team since 1998 and have been involved in our attempts for the past three World Cups,” Antar said. “The team have been making consistent progress all these years and we are getting stronger from game to game. “In a sense the current squad should be the best national team in history.” The Shadong Luneng player pointed to his side’s grit and determination as the overriding components behind the team’s success. “Our fans cheer for us not only for the results we’ve got, but also for the spirit which carried us through many key battles. “After all, we are not Japan or South Korea who can count on their star-studded lineups. We may not boast many overseas-based stars, but we play with our hearts so we are able to topple big opponents.” Lebanon’s date with destiny is just around the corner, and the Nov. 14 tie with Qatar could see the Cedars lifted to second place in their group. Antar though, was quick to downplay the possibility of victory, refusing to make any predictions for the upcoming match. “I never predict results and assess chances, because I think a player should always get prepared for the games ahead by maintaining his form. We should enjoy every game and do our best. If we continue our good run like this, perhaps after two or three games the qualifying picture could be clearer. “As for my captaincy role, I see the job as more a responsibility than pressure. It is my duty to do my job well and try to win matches alongside my teammates. And pressure can be turned into encouragement if you deal with it properly, because people under pressure often show their best.” Lebanon’s shock victory over Iran last month breathed life into the country’s flagging qualification hopes, and Antar was keen to highlight the magnitude of their feat. “The victory is very important for us,” the former Freiburg and Cologne playmaker said. “It was our first win against Iran so it came as a big morale-booster for us. “It was also our opening triumph in the final round which keeps us still in the contest. As for me, it was my first action with my country after a three-month layoff, and I am excited to have scored the match-winning goal.” The main architect of Lebanon’s unprecedented triumph was keeper Abbas Hasan, who thwarted a late Iranian siege on his goal with a string of brilliant saves to ensure the milestone for the surging Cedars. Antar paid homage to his goalkeeper’s heroics. “Hasan did quite a nice job between the posts against Iran,” said Antar in tribute of the Lebanese shotstopper. “His performance obviously encouraged us to do whatever we could to win the game. A goalkeeper like him can largely enhance a team’s chances to win. We also owed thanks to the fans and media alike, both of whom have provided us with support throughout the campaign so far.” The Daily Star