Title: Strategic Shift: Esteghlal’s Cup Match Presents Opportunity for Squad Rotation
TEHRAN – In a calculated move ahead of their Hazfi Cup fixture, Esteghlal Football Club is set to field a reshuffled lineup, turning player absences into a strategic opportunity for squad depth.
Key Absences Confirmed
Team officials have confirmed that several core players will be unavailable for the upcoming match against Padideh Khalkhal. Defensive mainstays Moussa Gnenepo and Roozbeh Cheshmi are sidelined due to injury. Furthermore, Habib Far Abbasi, despite showing signs of recovery, has not been medically cleared to play and will also miss the fixture.
Adding to the list, striker Dakenz Nazon is currently on international duty with the Haitian national team. His travel schedule means he will arrive in Iran only on Friday morning, leaving him without adequate preparation time for the match.
A Deliberate Tactical Approach
Rather than viewing these absences as a setback, head coach Ricardo Sá Pinto has indicated a deliberate and forward-thinking strategy. The coach intends to utilize this cup match to provide valuable playing time to members of the squad who have seen limited action on the pitch so far this season.
This approach demonstrates a clear focus on long-term team development and squad management. By leveraging the depth of his roster, Sá Pinto aims to maintain competitive momentum while simultaneously assessing and integrating all available talent within the Esteghlal framework. The club’s leadership appears confident in the team’s collective strength as they navigate their campaign in the domestic cup competition.