5/27/2006
Afshin Afshar. lastkick.com

Iran’s star midfielder Mehdi Mahdavikia injured his back during Friday’s training session in Osijek, Croatia.

Iran national team is in Osijek for a World Cup preparation match against the Croatian national team scheduled for Sunday, May 28.

Mahdavikia suffered painful back spasms during the training session and had to sit out the rest of the workout. However, in an interview with ISNA he downplayed the extent of the injury and suggested that he may take part in the friendly if his back pain subsides.

Mahdavikia has a history of back spasms that, although not serious, have kept him out of action for short periods of time.