Player Profile: Hossein Kaebi

Hossein Kaebi is a little guy in stature, but he has the heart of a giant. He was only 17 when he had his national team day view. Back then Coach Branko Ivankovic gave him a start at the right defensive position. Now at 20 he is already a veteran of many international games, and has the position locked and the key thrown away.

He is one of the most loved players on the national team, in big part because of the energy and commitment that he brings to each match.

Kaebi was born in Khuzestan region of Iran. The region is called Brazil of Iran because players from there are famous for their great ball handling techniques. They play the game with a flare not unlike Brazilians.

In interviews Kaebi’s small town back ground translates into an unmatched sincerity and perhaps some naivety that sometimes has gotten him in trouble with coaches and officials.

He hopes to play his football in Europe one day and the English Premier League is his favorite. If what we have seen from him so far is any indication, an excellent showing in the World Cup will propel him into the next wave of Iranian players who will move to Europe and succeed.