Ali Nemati
CB
Controlled Centre Back
Feb 7, 1996 (30)
Left
6'0"
Three tackles in final outing
Nemati registered two crosses (zero accurate) and three tackles in Friday's 1-1 draw against Egypt. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 43rd minute.
Analysis: Nemati was solid once again at the back, winning four of six duels and contributing three tackles, four clearances and one block. He also pushed forward from his centre back position to deliver crosses, one of which reached his defensive partner Shoja Khalilzadeh who was unable to keep his attempt on target. A frustrating end to the tournament for a player who was the undisputed starter throughout the group stage, going out without a loss but still exiting early, with 24 clearances, three tackles and one block accumulated across the three games.
Active against Belgium
Nemati recorded one tackle (one won) and eight clearances in Sunday's 0-0 draw against Belgium.
Analysis: Nemati did a good job inside his own box, with the high pressure from the opposition allowing him to accumulate clearances in addition to the clean sheet during his second World Cup game. The defender is now averaging 10.0 clearances per contest, ranking first on the squad and sixth among all players in the competition in that category. He'll look to stay heavily involved in defensive duties, even though he can't be expected to record clean sheets in future fixtures.
Game-high 12 clearances in draw
Nemati took one shot (off target), created two chances, and made 12 clearances in Monday's 2-2 draw with New Zealand. He also committed one foul.
Analysis: Nemati was regularly involved in breaking up attacks, contesting aerial balls, and helping Iran deal with New Zealand's attempts to play quickly into the final third. The defensive unit was tested throughout the match, but Nemati's willingness to cover space, track runners, and support his teammates helped keep Iran competitive during difficult spells. He faces a tough task keeping Belgium at bay on Sunday, June 21.
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