China will face hosts Iran in the Civilization Cup on Friday, the sides' first meeting since France '98 qualifying, when the Iranians swept both games against China.

Both teams lost their first match of the Civilization Cup.

For China, Iran represent the biggest obstacle to qualifying for the 2002 World Cup finals, as they likely will meet the Asian giants sometime during the qualifying campaign.

Although fans will not find European-based players in either squad, the upcoming match nevertheless is an intriguing one, especially since it marks the debut of new Iran boss Miroslav Blazevic.

China coach Bora Milutinovic is approaching the match as the team's only opportunity to get a glimpse of Iran ahead of qualifying.

As for Blazevic, Milutinovic regards him as one of the top coaches in the world. "It was a very difficult task to lead Croatia to third place at France '98. But Blazevic did it," Bora said. "I hope he encounters success in Iran."

Egypt and Italy, the other two teams playing in the Cup, will clash following the China-Iran match. The tournament champions will win approximately $100,000.

(People's Daily 01/19/01)