With goalkeeper Ali Beiranvand likely sidelined after a scary injury in Iran’s World Cup opener, back-up Hossein Hosseini has a tall task against Wales and star Gareth Bale.

Iran, in last place in Group B after a 2-6 loss to England, face Wales on Friday at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.

Hosseini has already faced a daunting opponent, taking over when Beiranvand was stretchered off in the first half of the tournament-opening loss on Monday before England had opened the scoring.

Iran did not comment on Beiranvand’s injury status. If it is determined that Beiranvand had a concussion, he’d be ruled out under Fifa’s return to-play rules.

Iran head coach Carlos Quieroz was pragmatic following the rout.

“We win or learn. We had the privilege to learn a lot of things with the English team,” he said.

“And I will say in conclusion that we’re much better prepared now to play against Wales.”

Bale converted on a penalty kick in the 82nd minute to earn Wales a 1-1 draw with the United States in their opener.

The draw gave Wales a point in their first World Cup match since 1958 and a shot at the knockout round within reach. Bale now has 41 goals in 109 international appearances.

Bale is not Wales’ only threat. Kieffer Moore, a striker for Bournemouth, could make his first World Cup start. Moore was a second-half sub against the United States and immediately made an impact.

Iran have never advanced to the knockout round.