Sapinto’s Selection Dilemma: Key Absences Challenge Esteghlal Ahead of Khuzestan Derby
Esteghlal Tehran is set to face its southern namesake, Esteghlal Khuzestan, in a crucial Week 4 match of the Persian Gulf Pro League. However, head coach Ricardo Sá Pinto is grappling with significant lineup challenges that threaten to disrupt his tactical plans.
Defensive Blow: Ashurmatov Ruled Out
A major setback for the Blues is the confirmed absence of key defender Rustam Ashurmatov. Team reports indicate the player has not yet reached optimal physical condition and will be unavailable for selection. The technical staff remains hopeful he will achieve full fitness soon and rejoin the squad for future fixtures. Ashurmatov is currently undergoing a specialized training regimen under close medical supervision to accelerate his recovery.
International Duty Complicates Attack
Further complicating preparations is the potential unavailability of winger Carnejy Antoine Nazon. The Haitian international is scheduled to play a vital 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier for his national team against Costa Rica in the CONCACAF zone in the early hours of Wednesday. This fixture makes his timely return and inclusion in Friday’s league match highly improbable.
While Esteghlal’s other domestic and foreign internationals are expected to return to Iran by Wednesday and are likely to be available, Nazon’s situation is unique due to the extensive travel and physical exertion involved. His presence is considered crucial for Haiti, and therefore, his late return is a foregone conclusion.
Pressing Tactical Questions for Sá Pinto
Nazon’s expected absence poses a serious tactical question for Coach Sá Pinto. The winger is regarded as a pivotal figure in creating scoring opportunities and driving the team’s offensive play. His promising performance in the previous match, albeit for only one half, highlighted his importance. Sá Pinto is now compelled to evaluate alternative options within the squad to fill the void in the attacking line and maintain the team’s offensive threat.
All eyes will be on the Portuguese manager’s team sheet on Friday to see how he navigates these selection hurdles and devises a strategy to secure a positive result against a determined Khuzestan side.