It was the latter who gave Kaebi his first international appearance at the age of 16 in a friendly against Slovakia in February 2002. The decision bore fruit as the teenager dazzled the watching crowds in Tehran's Azadi Stadium with his determined runs and deft dribbles.
Kaebi was born in the region of Khuzistan, well-known for being passionate about football. His career began at Esteghlal Javan before he moved to Foolad Khuzistan. His quickly earned a place in the Iran youth team where he first showed his talents and leadership skills on the right wing in qualifying for the continental U-16 finals.
Although he has been given a more defensive role in the senior side’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Kaebi has done a good at right-back and it was amazing to see the diminutive player, standing only 1.74m tall, shore up the defence alongside 35-year-old Yahya Golmohammadi, Italy-based Rahman Rezaei and Ali Badavi.
For what he lacks in physique, Kaebi has made up in stunning speed, brave tackles and shrewd reactions. Although not 20 until December, he has proved a dependable performer and has consolidated his place in the Iran side since his debut over two years ago.
He also has the ability to create and score crucial goals. He set up the opener for Bayern Munich man Ali Karimi in Iran’s 4-3 victory against Korea Republic in the quarter-finals of the 2004 AFC Asian Cup. In a 3-0 victory over New Zealand in the AFC\/OFC Challenge Cup in 2003, Kaebi crowned a perfect team display with a typical rampaging run down the right followed by a delicate shot just inside the near post. This young man will be one to watch in Germany in June and July.
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