Iran's Zandi ruled out of Mexico game

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.