Roozbeh Cheshmi
CB
Ball-Playing Centre Back
Jul 24, 1993 (32)
Right
6'4"
190 lb
Won't face Belgium
Cheshmi (hamstring) is out for Sunday's match against Belgium, according to Iran Focus.
Analysis: Cheshmi is not going to be an option for Iran in their second group stage match of the World Cup, as the defender will now miss both games to open the tournament. This is unfortunate for the team, as he remains an expected starter when fit. This will now leave his availability for the group stage finale in question, possibly not featuring this World Cup at all if they are eliminated.
Expected to miss New Zealand clash
Cheshmi (hamstring) won't take part in Iran's World Cup opener versus New Zealand, according to Tasnim Sport.
Analysis: Cheshmi was spotted in training earlier in the week, but he apparently failed to recover completely from his issue. Losing him is a blow to the team's midfield and defensive ability, with Shoja Khalilzadeh and Saeid Ezatolahi likely to benefit with increased playing time in central spots. It remains unclear when the injured player will be fit enough to see action, though he might initially be relegated to a substitute role.
Trains in full
Cheshmi (hamstring) was spotted training fully with the Iran squad on Monday, confirming his recovery from the hamstring issue that had raised some concern ahead of the World Cup opener against New Zealand on June 15, according to Press TV Sports.
Analysis: Cheshmi's return to collective sessions is an encouraging development for Iran heading into the tournament, with the medical staff having managed his condition carefully over the past week. The defender is now available for coach Amir Ghalenoei as Iran's final preparations enter their critical final stage.
Hamstring injury monitored
Cheshmi is receiving treatment for a hamstring injury as Iran prepare for their World Cup opener against New Zealand on June 15, according to Persian Culer.
Analysis: Cheshmi's condition will be assessed over the coming days before any further clarity emerges on his availability for the tournament opener. The national team's medical staff are monitoring his progress closely with the competition just days away. Cheshmi isn't expected to start for Iran, therefore a potential absence won't impact the starting XI.
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