Bosnia have already been knocked out of the World Cup. However, they have some pride at stake having lost their remaining fixtures of the Group stage. The focus will be on Iran as they need to ensure a victory. They haven’t scored in the tournament as yet and will have to open their account today. Their defense, has however, been admirable. If they can put up a performance similar to the one against Argentina, it would boost their chances of a victory. Nevertheless, they would also have to be dependent on the game between Argentina and Nigeria, as a draw for the African team would spell doom on a possible qualification for Iran. Irrespective of a knockout qualification, both teams would look to salvage some pride.
Top Players to look out for:
With Iran needing to score, expect Ashkan Dejagah to be the playmaker from the midfield. While Iran would have to focus on attacking, if they have to qualify, in form Goalkeeper, Alireza Haghighi will be crucial.
Bosnia would have to focus on their counter attacks and in Edin Dzeko, they have one of the best players to lead their counter. Although, he hasn’t performed particularly well, expect him to trouble the Iranian defense.
Head to Head:
A direct head to head comparison shows that Iran are the superior side having won 4 of the 5 games played between both sides. Bosnia, on the other hand, have managed to secure a solitary draw. Although Iran have more of a defend and counter style of play, a total of 23 goals have been scored between both sides with Iran scoring 16 and Bosnia claiming 7. Expect this match to be a high scoring one.
Probable Lineups:
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Begovic; Mujdza, Sunjic, Spahic, Medunjanin; Pjanic, Besic, Hajrovic, Misimovic, Lulic; Dzeko
Iran: Haghighi, Montazeri, Hosseini, Sadeghi, Pooladi; Timotian, Nekonam, Dejagah, Shojaei, Haji Safi, Ghoochannejhad
Predictions:
Iran shape up well at the back, however, have been failing to finish in the final third. However, their head to head fixtures shows that both teams tend to score goals in the games played. While Iran presses forward, Bosnia can seize their opportunities to counter and we could see a high scoring game. Iran could win, if they manage to balance their attack and defense.
Bosnia and Herzegovina 1 – 3 Iran
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