Russia 2018 Asian Qualifiers: Qatar vs. Iran [PREVIEW]

AFC – DOHA, Islamic Republic of Iran will look to at least maintain their one-point lead over Korea Republic when they travel to Doha to take on Qatar on Thursday.

Carlos Queiroz’s side are the only unbeaten team in Group A but, after Sardor Azmoun’s goal secured a 1-0 victory over the Taeguk Warriors on Matchday Four, Iran saw their lead at the top of the standings cut four days later when they played out a goalless draw with Syria.

Opponents Qatar got off to the worst possible start on the Road to Russia by suffering three defeats on the bounce but responded well by defeating Syria 1-0 and claiming a point in China on Matchdays Four and Five respectively.

The home side, though, will be without four players through suspension with Khalid Muftah, Ahmed Yasser, Abdelkarim Hassan and Meshaal Abdulla all unavailable for selection.