Iran`s Ali Karimi likely to miss derby

TEHRAN,Jan.15(MNA) – Persepolis midfielder Ali Karimi is a doubt for Tehran derby after suffering knee ligament damage against Saba football team on Sunday. “We'll have to wait and see what the extent of the damage is. Karimi will likely miss the matches against Damash and Esteghlal,” Persepolis Doctor Vajihollah Cheshmesari said. According to him, Persepolis captain Mehdi Mahdavikia, who has suffered ankle ligament damage in training, will be fit for the derby. “Mahdavikia is progressing well and I think he will be fit for the derby,” he said. Tehran derby between Esteghlal and Persepolis has been scheduled for January 25 at the Azadi Stadium.