Title: Key Absences: Esteghlal’s Star Duo Sidelined for Crucial Asian Champions League Clash
Tehran – Esteghlal Tehran is set for a pivotal encounter in the AFC Champions League 2 this Wednesday, hosting the UAE’s Al Wasl at the Shahid-e Shahr-e Qods Stadium. The match, a key fixture in the fifth week of the group stage, presents a significant challenge for the Iranian side as they navigate critical player absences.
Squad Setbacks
The Blues will be without two key players for this important continental fixture. Young winger Alireza Koushki is serving a suspension handed down by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), ruling him out of the match. His absence is compounded by the continued injury of Malian midfielder Moussa Kone, who remains on the sidelines.
Returning Strength
In a positive development for the team’s prospects, defenders Habib Far Abbasi and Roozbeh Cheshmi are set to make their return. Having recovered from their respective injuries, both players are cleared for selection and will be available to bolster Esteghlal’s lineup against their Emirati opponents.