Germany 2006 will be Islamic Republic of Iran’s third visit to the football World Cup and this time, they seem to be better prepared to make it to the second round. The reason behind their optimism is the large number of players plying their trade in the Bundesliga and the man who triggered the exodus is still around.

Iran’s connection with Germany dates back to the years when their most famous footballer Ali Daei showcased his skills in the German league. Now 37, Daei can still make a difference with his German connection, having once enjoyed stints with Arminia Bielefeld, Hertha Berlin and Bayern Munich.

Coach Branko Ivankovic, a Croat, also has several other key members in his squad making a living in Germany. With four players in Bundesliga- Vahid Hashemian, Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia and Fereydoon Zandi -the Iranians are next only to the hosts when it comes to familiarity with the conditions.

The star of the squad is Ali Karimi, dubbed as ‘Asian Maradona’— a skilful attacking midfielder-cum-striker who is on Bayern Munich’s books. Kaiserslautern midfielder Zandi, who recently chose Iran over Germany, Hamburg SV’s veteran of the 1998 World Cup and 2003 Asian Player of the Year Mahdavikia and Hashemian of Hanover are also key to the team’s hopes. Ivankovic can also call on the talents of Daei, who played at the 1998 tournament, and who will be looking to extend his record as international football’s all-time leading scorer with over 100 goals.

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