Year: 2022

Squad for Iraq and UAE games announced.

Team Melli which is on the verge of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, will play against Iraq and the UAE on January 27th and 2nd February. Iran needs one win only to qualify. The coaching staff has announced the list of players invited to the national team camp.

The names of the invited players and the waiting list of players for the team :

    • Goalkeepers:
  1. Alireza Biranvand
  2. Amir Abedzadeh
  3. Payam Niazmand
    • Defenders:
  4. Sadegh Moharremi
  5. Mohammad Hossein Kananizadegan
  6. Shoja’a Khalilzadeh
  7. Majid Hosseini
  8. Omid Nourafkan
  9. Milad Mohammadi
  10. Siavash Yazdani
  11. Saleh Hardani
    • Midfielders:
  12. Saeed Ezatollahi
  13. Milad Sarlak
  14. Ehsan Haj Safi
  15. Vahid Amiri
  16. Mehdi Torabi
  17. Ahmad Noorollahi
  18. Saman Ghoddos
  19. Alireza Jahanbakhsh
  20. Ali Gholizadeh
  21. Allahyar Sayadmanesh
    • Forwards:
  22. Mehdi Taremi
  23. Sardar Azmoun
  24. Karim Ansarifard
  25. Kaveh Rezaei
  26. Mehdi Ghaedi
  27. Shahab Zahedi

 

the Standby List: Mohammadreza Akhbari, Danial Ismailifard, Aref Aghasi, Kamal Kamyabi Nia, Zubair Nikonfs, Soroush Rafiei

The following players have been excluded due to positive results of the Coronavirus test:  Mehdi Mehdipour & Amir Hossein Hosseinzadeh

Burnley dealt transfer blow as striker target joins Bayer Leverkusen

Burnley’s hopes of landing striker Sardar Azmoun are over after the 27-year-old agreed to a deal with German side Bayer Leverkusen.

The Zenit St Petersburg star is out of contract in the summer and Burnley’were keen on the hotshot and made a bid, believed to be around £8million. While the Russian club were prepared to deal at that price other suitors, including Juventus and Lyon, meant the player was prepared to weigh up his options.

And he has now signed for Leverkusen, penning a contract until 2027.

Iranian international Azmoun has scored 10 times in 21 games this season.

Burnley is struggling at the foot of the Premier League table this season with many games in hand due to Covid. They have also sold their best striker to Newcastle. The chances of surviving relegation is quite thin. On the other hand, Bayer Leverkusen is enjoying a successful season in the German top flight. With 20 games played, the club is ranked 3rd in the table behind Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, and a place in the next season UEFA Champions League seems to be well within reach of the club.

 

Sardar Azmoun signed by Bayern Leverkusen in the summer

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed the signing of Sardar Azmoun from the summer of 2022, with the Iranian international joining from Zenit St. Petersburg on a five-year contract.

Azmoun, a 27-year-old forward with an eye for goals and assists, will compete for a place in Leverkusen’s starting attack with Patrik Schick and Lucas Alario when he makes his move to Bundesliga football in the summer.

“[It is] a step from the best club in Russia to one of the best leagues in Europe,” he told the Bundesliga club’s website.

“Bayer Leverkusen have a really great squad. I’ve been keeping an eye on the club for a long time and am impressed by the team’s style of play. It’s incredibly exciting for me soon to be able to play in the Bundesliga. And I’m convinced I’ll make the team even better with my footballing ability.”

Capped 60 times by Iran, an impressive 39 goals for his country compliments his selection for the World Cup in 2018 and two Asian Cup squads in 2015 and 2019.

As well as being the youngest Iranian to score in a UEFA Champions League game, he is also the Iranian record-holder for the most goals scored in the competition with six goals.

He has spent his professional career entirely in the Russian top flight with two spells each at Rubin Kazan and Rostov preceding his transfer to Zenit in 2019.

In St. Petersburg, he has found the net 62 times in 104 appearances across all competitions. He was named Russia’s Footballer of the Year for 2021 and his impressive goal stats have continued into this season, in which he has scored 10 goals in 21 games – including two strikes in the Champions League.

“We’re delighted to have completed this transfer,” said Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes.

“Sardar Azmoun has been one of Russian football’s top goalscorers for several years. He’s been champion three years in a row there with Zenit, regularly played in the Champions League, and shown himself to be of international class at the highest level. Our attack gains extra quality with him. Sardar will make our attack even more unpredictable and powerful.”

Managing director for sport, Rudi Völler added: “He’s very quick, good in the air and has a good sense for space. But he’s not just a goalscorer. Sardar Azmoun also sets up a lot of goals and is an outstanding fit for the Werkself as a player who combines well with others.”

Miguel Rodrigo turns down Futsal Team Melli assistant coach post.

Vahid Shamsaii after being appointed as the head coach of the Iranian national futsal team said they will have a Spanish coach on the technical staff cadre. In this regard, negotiations were held with several Spanish coaches, but some of them refused the offer to join the technical staff of the Iranian national futsal team. One of them is Miguel Rodrigo, a 51-year-old experienced Spanish coach. Miguel, who has worked for the national futsal teams of Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam and has comprehensive knowledge of Asian futsal, refused to work as an assistant in the technical staff of the Iranian national futsal team. In a conversation with Mehr reporter, while confirming the negotiations has been held between him and the FFIRI, this coach explained the reason for rejecting Vahid Shamsai’s offer by saying  ” I am a head coach and not an assistant. I thanked him for this offer, but I am not interested in being Shamsaii’s assistant.”

The news increases the pressure on the futsal team as many critics have questioned Shamsaei’s appointment. While none deny his legendary status as a player with world-class quality, very few believe he is ready to coach Iran’s futsal team into continental and world competitions. The appointment of a quality coach to cover his coaching skills and lack of experience seemed to be the proposed solution.

Skočić : Team Melli list will be announced on Sunday (tomorrow)

 Skočić said that the list of Iran’s national team will be published on Sunday after the conclusion of the latest League matches.

in response to the question of whether new players will be invited? He said: “Yes, but our core list does not change much. Individuals who were not in the previous camp may be invited. Our list is not very different. My idea is to give more space to young players. I expect more from young players. “

League quality

“The quality of the league has declined. Perhaps due to Corona and the lack of fans in the stadium. I realize that Iranian players have a strong emotional aspect and the absence of fans’ place in the stadium affects their performance, but I expect more from the young players. ” The head coach of Team Melli added “stating that Iranian football has problems in some positions such as last defense, winger, and midfield, said: “It seems that Iranian football is lacking in these positions. I am not afraid of giving young players a chance. The young player should not start cautiously or conservatively whenever he is given the chance, instead, he must have enough energy and drive to break down the door and impose himself. I want to see more young players. I am always receptive. We must also create a spirit of change in the national team. The player is not supposed to think that because he has been in the national team for 10 years, he has the right to a place unless he has been proven and maintains the required standard.”

Quality players and the Seniors

“Respect for an experienced player is obligatory, but they must be the most prepared and best players on the list. We have lower-quality defenders and midfielders than a good striker” Skocic continued: “Sometimes it is not just a matter of choosing the best player, but also the players who make up the best team. I have to imagine how the communication between the players on the field goes. To build a good team, we must maintain team balance. I can not put seven strikers in the national team. Now there is this imbalance. We have fewer quality players in defense and midfield than in attack. We have high traffic on the offensive line. The place of some players in several positions is still empty to leave my hand open.”

He was asked if this problem would be solved? “We are trying to solve the problem,” he said.” It is not a matter of us being separate from the clubs. With my background working in Iranian clubs, I know the importance of what coaches do. My request to the coaches is to have a two-way relationship with us so that we can figure out the best things for the football of this country. I am grateful to Majid Hosseini” the head coach of the Iranian national football team said regarding the way he treats the players in the team “

“In a team, there are quality players and lower quality players, but I do not differentiate between them. Our priority is the team and everyone must serve the team. A superstar may decide a game, but in the end, it is the team that advances to the World Cup, not the player. We need to understand this difference. Even for me, the players on the bench are often are important because they make you feel comfortable. For example, Majid Hosseini, whose work I really appreciate. He did not play for us in the national team for two years, but he was on the bench with all his energy. I want this mentality. I understand the players whose vision is individual. The coach must always see the big picture. We have a very good team now and I am satisfied with this group.

Support Staff

“Yes, without any of these people, our work would be lame,” Skocic said of the team’s support group. “Doctors have more responsibilities in coronary conditions. Each member of the cadre has his share. My assistants and everyone on the staff contribute to this success. I can not name those who are behind the scenes of the national team. We are all there to provide the ideal conditions for the players. The players are waiting to receive a reward.”

Hashemian

About his Iranian assistant, Vahid Hashemian, Skocic said  “There is nothing but this expectation in the national team and everyone should move forward with humility. Vahid Hashemian works hard. The same is true for the rest. We could not have reached this position if our focus was on the margins. We do our job with full concentration, which is due to the quality of the people who are with the national team. “

Rewards

The head coach of the national team reminded us: the president of the federation has meetings with the minister of sports to solve the problems. “I want the best conditions for the players. We have problems, but they are being addressed. We understand the situation in the country, but the players are waiting to receive their rewards. This is what happens when national team players compare themselves to other countries. For example in Croatia; 60% of the World Cup prize goes to the federation and 40% to the players and coaches. I want the players to have peace of mind. I am not from Iran, but I understand that the players have expectations.”

FFIRI planning early qualification ceremony

While the Football fans in Iran are still awaiting the approval of the National Headquarters against Corona to attend Team Melli’s upcoming matches against Iraq and the UAE, The football federation is planning early qualification to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

the Iranian Football Federation has prepared so that it can hold the best possible ceremony with the presence of special guests. Shahabuddin Azizi Khadem, President of the FFIRI, who had two meetings with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, invited him to watch one of the matches of the Iranian national team on 27th January or 2nd February, which, according to the federation’s website, was agreed by FIFA President. Infantino has moved his headquarters to Doha to oversee the progress and preparation for the World Cup 2022.

The reduction in the number of deaths in the country due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus also raised the hopes of the Football Federation to get approval from the health authorities in the country allowing the attendance of fans in Azadi Stadium, even with limited numbers. It is alleged that the National Headquarters against Corona has verbally agreed to a 30% attendance at all football stadiums, but such instructions have not yet been transmitted t to the Ministry of Sports and then to the Football Federation. On the other hand, the coronavirus mutation called “omicron” has become a serious challenge for the presence of special guests. With 5 days left to play Iraq and 10 days to meet the UAE, Infantino has not yet officially responded to the Iranian Federation’s request to be in Tehran.

 

However, the public relations department of the Football Federation will continue monitoring developments in this issue until 24 hours before each game. Considering the possibility of Infantino’s imminent trip and the possibility of announcing his readiness, the possibility of the presence of male and female fans in the upcoming matches of the Iranian national team is not certain. Ali Azari Jahromi, the government spokesman, announced last Tuesday that a special meeting had been held between the president of the football federation, the Minister of Sports to prepare for the matches, however, with four days left, there is no sign of online sales of the tickets for the Iraq and UAE matches.

The Iranian national football team will host Iraq on the 27th of January at Azadi Stadium. The victory for Dragan Skucic’s team in each of these matches will result in the early Qualifications of Team Melli to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Saeed Ezatollahi, joins Al-Gharafah of QSL on a loan deal

Saeed Ezatollahi, the Team Melli midfielder, joined Al-Gharafah Qatar on a 6-month loan contract under the coaching of the Italian Stramaccioni. The former Esteghlal coach Stramaccioni has been looking to attract the Team Melli player for some time.

The much-traveled Ezatollahi has been playing for Danish Superliga club Vejle Boldklub. His initially promising career start well from the Age groups team of the Spanish La Liga side, Athletico Madrid joining from Malavan Anzali. Since then, Al Gharafa is the ninth side that Ezatollahi has joined. The Qatari clubs have a tradition of dismissing players at will and have little patience and tolerance with non-performing foreign players. Even Ali Karimi, a star of his own right found it difficult to settle and deal with the Qatari’s who expect miracles from foreign players.

 

Iran’s women team gains its first point.

The-afc.com

Navi Mumbai: Iran held India to a 0-0 draw in their AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022™ Group A clash at the D.Y. Patil Stadium on Thursday.

India had the better chances but determined defending by Iran kept the hosts at bay as both teams now set their sights on their Matchday Two ties.
Iran, making their first AFC Women’s Asian Cup appearance, found themselves on the backfoot as India started aggressively with their attacks coming from the flanks.
India had their first attempt on goal in the second minute as Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi’s run down the left caught Iran by surprise but the midfielder’s effort was easily cleared by goalkeeper Zohreh Koudaei.

Iran found themselves under pressure again two minutes later when India’s Manisha Kalyan sent a delightful cross to Pyari Xaxa who, however,  sent her header wide.
With India controlling the pace of the game, Maryam Irandoost’s side saw very little of the ball but they could have taken the lead against the run of play in the 12th minute from a set-piece.

Samaneh Chahkandi sent a delightful ball into the area for Negin Zandi, whose looping header beat India goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan, only to bounce off the crossbar.

India, however, continued to dominate but the South Asians missed several chances with Indumathi Kathiresan and Kalyan firing their efforts over the bar as the score remained 0-0 going into the break.

India continued to dictate the pace of the game after the restart with Kalyan Iran’s main tormentor when she sent a clever pass to Kathiresan who at full stretch missed the target by mere inches.
Thomas Dennerby’s side almost broke the deadlock just after the hour mark when Kathiresan made a darting run down the left after linking up well with Xaxa but her effort was undone when she slammed the ball into the side netting from close range.
Koudaei had to be on her toes a minute later when she denied Kathiresan from inside the box as Iran continued to hold out.
India were denied what looked like a sure goal in the 77th minute when substitute Manisha Panna sent a delightful cross to Dangmei Grace, whose header from close-range was denied by a one-handed save by Koudaei.
Dennerby’s India will be aiming to claim their first win when they face Chinese Taipei on Sunday, while Iran face eight-time champions China PR.

MATCH STATS

India

4-3-3
 0 – 0 Iran

4-4-2
AFC Women’s Asian Cup

India
1 A. Chauhan GK
3 M. Panna DF
4 A. Devi DF
7 R. Devi 82‎‘‎ MF
8 S. Yadav DF
9 A. Tamang MF
10 P. Xaxa 65‎‘‎ FW
12 I. Kathiresan MF
13 S. Ranganathan 55‎‘‎ FW
16 M. Kalyan 69‎‘‎82‎‘‎ FW
17 D. Chhibber DF

Substitutes
5 Shilky Devi 82‎‘‎82‎‘‎ Sub
11 D. Grace 55‎‘‎55‎‘‎ Sub
15 Renu 65‎‘‎65‎‘‎ Sub
22 S. Kumari 82‎‘‎82‎‘‎ Sub

Manager
– Dennerby MAN

Iran
1 Z. Koudaei GK
4 M. Motevalli DF
5 G. Banitalebi DF
6 Z. Sarbali 59‎‘‎ MF
8 B. Taherkhani DF
11 S. Chahkandi 59‎‘‎ MF
17 N. Zandi 88‎‘‎ FW
18 M. Mohammadi MF
19 F. Adeli DF
20 H. Dabbaghi 70‎‘‎ FW
23 S. Sadeghi 67‎‘‎70‎‘‎ MF

Substitutes
7 A. Chatrenoor 88‎‘‎88‎‘‎ Sub
10 S. Zohrabi 70‎‘‎70‎‘‎ Sub
13 Y. Farmani 70‎‘‎70‎‘‎ Sub
16 Z. Masoumi 59‎‘‎59‎‘‎ Sub
21 M. Nikkhah 59‎‘‎59‎‘‎ Sub

Manager
– Irandoost MAN

Omid Team to start a training camp alongside Team Melli.

The Omid National Team Camp begins at the same time as the Team Melli at the National Team Camp. According to ISNA, with the plans made by the technical staff and the announcement of Mohammad Mohammadi, the head of the Omid national football team, the camp of this team will start on the 24th or 25th of January, and players under the age of 23 will be called to the national team camp after three months. . The Omid national team camp will be held at the same time as the senior national team camp – which is preparing to meet Iraq and the UAE in the FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers – and MahdaviKia’s boys will hold several training sessions and two preparatory matches for a week.

According to the plan, two Premier League teams will be the opponents of the Omid national team, to help the U23/Olympic team prepare better. Mehdi Mahdavikia and his assistants will arrive in Tehran in around the 21st of January. Previously, the work visas of three foreign assistants of Mahdavikia have been issued b

In the period between the departure of Mahdavikia and his assistants from Iran, the games played in the Premier League have been regularly reviewed and analyzed. One of Mahdavikia’s assistants has been assigned to evaluate new and potential candidates for the Omid team in Iran’s first and second division leagues for a long time so that new faces can be added to the Omid national team in the upcoming camp. Over the next five months, Mahdavikia seeks to identify new members and bolster his team’s strengths and ensure the weaknesses are mitigated in order to participate in the AFC Under-23 Championship, which will be held in Uzbekistan in mid-June.

Women Team Melli star: Hajar Dabbaghi

Iran’s Women futsal team will play its first-ever match in the AFC Woman Asian Cup in four days’ time against the host nation India in Navi Mumbai D.Y. PATIL Stadium.
It is a challenge that the girls of Team Melli are most eager to take for various reasons. Under the leadership of the Charismatic coach, Mariyam Irandoost., The women team are hoping to make a difference although they are ranked outsiders in the championship and little is expected from them. The team made history and headlines when they qualified and the media suddenly took an interest in this young team. In the following series, we will introduce some of the stars of the team who are normally unknown and are the least athletes exposed to the media in Iran.
source: www.the-afc.com
Hajar Dabbaghi (IR Iran)
Hajar-Dabbaghi
On their road to a historic qualification for India 2022, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Hajar Dabbaghi (22 years) caught the eye, having first made her name at the continental level when she helped her nation qualify for the AFC Women’s Under-16 Championship in 2015.

However, Dabbaghi’s potential was truly witnessed at the 2019 CAFA (Central Asian Football Association) U-23 Women’s Championship when the forward netted eight goals, helping Iran to a runners-up place and claiming the top scorer award in the process.
The 22-year-old went on to score five more goals in national team colours in the qualification campaign for Tokyo 2020 as well as finding the back of the net en route to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in a 5-0 victory over Bangladesh.

Possessing great situational awareness in the box, Dabbaghi’s goalscoring instincts will be key for Iran. As player and country get set to kick off their maiden campaign against hosts India on January 20, the stage is set for the 22-year-old to shine.  Dabbaghi plays for Sepahan Esfahan club in the Women’s league.