Iraq, grouped with Team Melli in the AFC Asian Cup 2019 has lost a key player through injury

The Iraqi national football team is the main opponents of Team Melli in Group D UAE which also includes Vietnam and Yemen. Justin Hikmat Meram, has been declared unfit and will be on the injury list for a few weeks. He is doubtful for the Asian Cup as it seems to be a long recovery path for the midfielder. It is bad news for the Iraqi team losing one of the important players who was assured of a spot if he was fit for Asian Cup,

The 29 years old, American born Meram spoke of the severity of his injuries by posting in the social media and emphasized that he could not make it to the Asian Cup The Iraqi Football Association also confirmed this news. Justin Meram plays for the Columbus Crew SC  in the American league and his absence in the Iraqi national football team could have an impact.

Iraq and Iran will meet on 16th January in the final match of Group D in Al-Maktoum Stadium, Dubai. It is expected of both teams to qualify for the next round.