Tired Iraq worries Zico: Brazil legend says FIFA need to rethink tight fixtures

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SINGAPORE - Just four training sessions into his tenure as Iraq head coach, Brazilian legend Zico faces a vital Fifa World Cup qualifying fixture against Singapore at Jalan Besar Stadium on Tuesday, and the odds do not favour his new charges.

From disappointment after suffering a 2-0 home loss to Jordan, to fatigue and an unpredictable artificial turf to grapple with, Iraq have to dig deep to stay in contention in a group that also features China.

"It was a 30-hour trip (to Singapore), the team died (in training) yesterday, and if we don't win it'll be difficult to qualify.

"Maybe Fifa needs to rethink their (fixtures), it's not possible to play so soon after a game, the players are tired," the man known the world over as the 'White Pele" said on Monday.

"It is difficult (to get the players mentally ready) it was a lot of pressure for them in their first game played in Iraq … and at this moment for Iraq, it's very bad.

But Zico is holding out hope the team will come around by kick-off time.

"But maybe tomorrow the players will be more relaxed and play well," said the 58-year-old.