Reuters - Iran's German-based
midfielder Ferydoon Zandi has been ruled out of his country's World Cup
opener with Mexico on Sunday, coach Branko Ivankovic said on Friday.
"Zandi underwent an MRI-scan but will be fit for the match against
Portugal," said Ivankovic. Iran play Portugal in their second Group D
match on June 17.
"Sattar Zare sustained a fresh injury and also had the scan but he will
be fit for Mexico," he added. Zare plays in defence.
Coach Ivankovic requires his players to know every detail about their
group rivals, but urged them not to be overawed by Mexico's ranking of
fourth in the world.
"Their ranking does not mean anything because we will play to our own
qualities," Ivankovic told a news conference.
"We will make our own strategy for each game and with a minimum of
changes we try to adjust to the opponent's tactics"
"In my philosophy my players have to think about their opponent and know
their strength and weaknesses."
Ivankovic underlined the importance of his captain Ali Daei and the trio
who play in the German Bundesliga, Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia and
Zandi.
The Croatian said they are are used to playing in German stadiums and
have to stand up and be counted.
