Iran hit by double inury
Iran’s World Cup campaign has been dealt a serious blow with two players looking set to miss the crucial opening clash with Mexico through injury and sickness.
On Thursday left back Sattar Zare was carried from the training field after twisting a knee while midfielder Ferydoon Zandi is still recovering from a fever.
“I’m scared it’s not so good for both players and I’m not so sure they will be passed to play,” said coach Branko Ivankovic.
With dynamic front-runner Ali Karimi and playmaker Mehdi Mahdavikia both returning from ankle and back trouble respectively, a double withdrawal raises doubts over Iran‘s ability to compete with the Group D seeds.
Iran are desperate for points against Mexico before facing group favourites Portugal and then Angola as they bid to reach the second-round knock-out stage for the first time in three attempts.
Sattar’s injury came after Mexico‘s first-choice goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez flew home following his father’s sudden death.
“It’s a 1-1 draw now,” quipped Ivankovic.