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Tough win for Iran futsal.

Jakarta: Iran survived a stern test to defeat Saudi Arabia 2-0 in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ Group D tie on Friday.

The defending champions had to withstand heavy pressure from Saudi Arabia throughout the match before two second half goals and Afghanistan’s 7-0 win against Malaysia in the later game, saw them advancing to the quarter-finals.

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Saudi Arabia took the game to Iran from the opening whistle with Bagher Mohammadi having to make multiple stops to deny efforts from Eihab Mohamed and Saleh Alqarni.

Despite being put under intense pressure, Iran forced a chance in the seventh minute when Saied Ahmad Abbasi was sent through on goal in a quick breakaway but saw his low shot kept out by Humood Aldahhan’s outstretched leg.

Rotating their players with regular frequency, Saudi Arabia were able to keep their intensity high throughout the first half, forcing Mohammadi to make another good save in the 10th minute after Moath Alasiri had broken through.

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As the first half edged towards its end, Iran started to find gaps with Aldahhan having to be at his best to make a double save, first from Behrooz Azimi then getting back on his feet to block out Salar Aghapour’s follow-up header.

Iran did find the net when Azimi fired home from Aghapour’s corner delivery but the goal was ruled out after Video Support review with the half-time buzzer having sounded before the ball went in.

Group D: Saudi Arabia v IR Iran

After the break, Mohammadi showed why he’s one of the best in the game, coming out of his goalmouth to block successive efforts from Abdullah Alaqeeli and Alqarni after Nawaf Aroan started the play with a run out of defence.

Saudi Arabia, however, spurned a great opportunity in the 25th minute after an interchange of passes between Alaqeeli and Alasiri took the Iranian keeper out of position but the former scuffed his shot wide with the goalmouth gaping.

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Against the run of play, Iran broke the deadlock in the 29th minute after Ahmad Abbasi’s strike had been turned away for a corner kick with Moslem Oladghobad’s delivery nodded in by Amirhossein Gholami.

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Saudi Arabia went for broke in their search for the equaliser but their efforts were in vain with Mohammadi securing the win for Iran with a stunning volley in the 35th minute from almost the full length of the court.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan jumped to the top of the table above Iran after a convincing 7-0 win against Malaysia. Iran’s final group match against Afghanistan will decide the leader of the group. Both teams have already qualified for the next stage regardless of the Sunday match.

#TeamMPGOALSGDPTS
1Afghanistan Afghanistan 210:0+106
2IranI Iran26:1+56
3Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia 20:5-50
4Malaysia Malaysia 21:11-100

Internal Strife Threatens Iran’s World Cup Hopes

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, with just five months until the tournament kicks off, the Iranian national football team finds itself grappling not only with technical deficiencies but with a deeply concerning lack of unity—a stark contrast to the harmonious picture painted by head coach Amir Ghalenoei.

Despite repeated warnings from experts about persistent performance and management issues, Football Federation head Mehdi Taj has opted for stability, deciding to retain Ghalenoei. This move signals a clear departure from the federation’s previous approach, which saw the sudden dismissal of a successful Dragan Skocic, who led the team to qualification just before the final of the competition in Qatar in the 2022 World Cup. The message is clear: change is off the agenda, and Ghalenoei will remain at the helm regardless of the team’s precarious state.

The coach has consistently lauded the squad’s exceptional unity over the past three years. Recent events, however, reveal a troubling reality. Growing evidence suggests Ghalenoei may be papering over significant rifts within the Team Melli camp, with claims of solidarity appearing to exist only on paper.

A Public Feud Between Defensive Pillars

The simmering tensions erupted into public view following the Persepolis-Tractor match. Key defenders Shoja Khalilzadeh and Mohammad Hossein Kanaanizadegan, once close enough to call each other “brother”, have engaged in a bitter, public exchange of verbal abuses over minor on-field incidents. This discord is not isolated; similar altercations occurred during the match against Mes Rafsanjan. The rift has grown so severe that videos of the two players “unfollowing” each other on social media have circulated online, fanning flames among supporters and poisoning the team atmosphere.

Beyond the Pitch: Players in the Political Fray

The issue extends beyond a personal feud. These experienced players have entangled themselves in the federation’s political battles, notably the ongoing dispute between businessman Mohammad Reza Zenozi and Mehdi Taj. Instead of focusing on defensive coordination, they have each seemingly aligned with opposing factions, a glaring misstep that highlights a severe lack of managerial control and player discretion.

Their conduct is, unfortunately, characteristic. Both Khalilzadeh and Kanaanizadegan have histories of controversy, abusive, and unprofessional behavior, marked by petulance and unpredictability. At the national team level, Ghalenoei has proven to be a poor disciplinarian, a fact underscored after the Uzbekistan match when star forward Mehdi Taremi bluntly walked away from the coach who was attempting to speak with him. This culture of impunity is pervasive, with disciplinary committees at both club and federation levels often acting as mere formalities rather than enforcing regulations strictly.

A Dire Warning with the World Cup Looming

Drawn into a challenging Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, Iran faces an uphill battle. The internal disputes, managerial indecisiveness, and the divisive behavior of key players present a serious threat to the team’s World Cup campaign.

Retaining Ghalenoei without addressing these foundational issues—particularly the breakdown of locker room discipline and the dangerous blurring of lines between playing and political roles—risks catastrophic consequences. It threatens not only Iran’s performance on the world’s biggest stage but also the credibility and honor of Iranian football itself.

Aghapour vows to repay coach’s faith in him

Jakarta: Salar Aghapour is grateful for the trust placed in him by head coach Vahid Shamsaee after the 26-year-old played a starring role in Iran’s 4-1 win over Malaysia in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ Group D opener on Wednesday.
The Iran squad is a mix of senior and junior players, with Shamsaae having admitted prior to the tournament that he’s looking to refresh the squad with Aghapour one of those in the latter camp.

Still only 26, Aghapour is living his dream of playing for the national team and more importantly, getting to work with one of game’s most notable names.

“We are a family, we are all working together and playing for each other,” said Aghapour. “That comes from the coaching staff, Vahid Shamsaee is one of the best as the head coach.
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“When he gives me a chance to play, I’m trying to do my best, playing with others and others with me. When you see me play more, it’s not about me but about the trust that my coaches and teammates have in me.

“Shamsaee is one of the real legends of the game – not only in Iran but also the world – and I will do my best to learn everything I can from him.”
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Iran will next take on Saudi Arabia on Friday with Aghapour stressing the defending champions can only get better once they have adapted to the surface and conditions at Jakarta International Velodrome.

“We could have shown better quality but this is our first game in a new stadium and I believe that game by game, we will get better as we get used to the floor. We will be able to show way better quality.”

Firm start by Iran Futsal Team

Jakarta: Iran’s title defence started with a 4-1 win against Malaysia in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ Group D tie on Wednesday.

With the win, Iran joined Afghanistan, who beat Saudi Arabia 3-0 earlier in the day, on maximum points.

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Malaysia forced Bagher Mohammadi into making two early saves, both efforts from Awalluddin Nawi but it was Iran who would take the lead inside the opening minute.

A mix-up between goalkeeper Syaifuddin Syukri and Saad Sani saw what was supposed to be an easy gather turned into a simple tap-in for Mohammadhossein Derakhshani.

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Mohammadi came to the rescue of Iran again in the fifth minute, coming out of his goalmouth to stop a marauding Firdaus Ambiah who had broken through the last line of defence.

Similarly, Syaifuddin had to work hard to prevent the gap from widening, making a smart reflex swing to tip away Salar Aghapour’s rasping drive in the 10th minute and then sticking his leg out in the 18th to clear a volley from the same player before Hossein Tayebi cracked a shot against the post just before the break. 

Group D: IR Iran v Malaysia

After the interval, Malaysia continued to soak up Iran’s pressure with the occasional counter attacks looking dangerous but the reigning champions’ efficiency came to the fore in the 25th minute.

Aghapour – from the kick-in – teed up Behrooz Azimi for a precise low strike into the bottom corner which Syaifuddin could do nothing about.

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Iran were brimming with confidence now, adding a third a minute later when Tayebi capitalised on a Malaysian mistake to fire home from the edge of the semi-circle.

Moslem Oladghobad added another for Iran in the 28th minute with Malaysia netting a late consolation through Awalluddin. 

AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026: Group D review

Jakarta: Just three days remain for the kick-off of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ with the 16 contenders laying their final plans for the continental showpiece.

Concluding our look at the groups, the-AFC.com puts Group D under the microscope.

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Iran


Previous appearances: 17
Best finish: Champions (13 times)
2024 record: Champions
How they qualified: Group G winners
Fun fact: Iran has reached the title decider in 15 of their previous 17 appearances, only missing out in 2006 and 2012.

#ACFutsal2024 | Final : Thailand 1 - 4 Islamic Republic Of Iran

It will require a gargantuan effort to stop Iran from advancing from Group D, with the defending champions having shown their immense quality in qualifying.

Iran were the highest scorers in the Qualifiers, notching 26 goals without conceding once, sweeping aside Malaysia, United Arab Emirates and Bangladesh.

They were unstoppable at Thailand 2024, winning all but one of their six matches by at least two goals and will be eyeing more of the same with head coach Vahid Shamsaee having a plethora of talent at his disposal.

Afghanistan


Previous appearance: 1
Best finish: Quarter-final (2024)
How they qualified: Group H winners
Fun fact: Having impressed on their debut, Afghanistan will expect to advance to the knockout stage once again at Indonesia 2026. 

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Afghanistan booked their Finals ticket with a relatively straight-forward qualifying campaign, finishing as Group H winners.

Starting with a 10-1 win against Maldives, Afghanistan sealed a second appearance with a superb 8-0 victory against hosts Myanmar.

Despite having been drawn with Iran, Afghanistan will have no fear after having given the defending champions a tough fight when they met in the group stage of the 2024 edition.

Saudi Arabia


Previous appearances: 3
Best finish: Group stage
2024 record: Group stage
How they qualified: One of seven best runners-up
Fun fact: Saudi Arabia’s appearance at Indonesia 2026 will be their third consecutive Finals.

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Saudi Arabia’s initial target will be to reach the knockout stage.

Head coach Andreu Alvarez oversaw the Qualifiers where Saudi Arabia defeated Chinese Taipei and Pakistan before being edged by Iraq in their final match.

Fahad Rudyani was the star of their campaign, finding the net four times as Saudi Arabia displayed their attacking prowess with 19 goals.

Malaysia


Previous appearances: 12
Best finish: Group stage
2024 record: Did not qualify
How they qualified: One of seven best runners-up
Fun fact: Malaysia return to the continental showpiece after missing the last two editions.

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Malaysia have it all to do as they return to the competition for the first time since 2018 with Iran already a familiar sight, having lost 4-0 to the Central Asian side in the Qualifiers.

Addie Azwan Zainal has taken over as head coach duties Rakphol Sainetngam – who has returned to take charge of his native Thailand – and will have to implement his ideas in a short period of time.

Several friendly matches were played as part of their week-long final preparation as Addie looks to guide Malaysia to a respectable outing.

Korea Eyes Historic Hosting Bid Amidst Fierce Competition

Korea Eyes Historic Hosting Bid Amidst Fierce Competition

The race to host the AFC Asian Cup 2031 is entering a pivotal and highly competitive phase, with the Korean Football Association (KFA) emerging as one of the most determined contenders. Despite its strong resolve, Korea faces a formidable uphill battle in what is widely expected to be the most fiercely contested bidding process in the tournament’s history.

Chung Mong-gyu’s Leadership Pledge

KFA President Chung Mong-gyu placed hosting the 2031 tournament at the heart of his campaign platform ahead of his successful re-election for a fourth term. True to his pledge, the KFA formally submitted its letter of intent to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) the day after Chung secured his mandate at the end of February, underscoring the nation’s earnest commitment.

Unprecedented Seven-Nation Bidding Field

According to AFC records, seven nations have officially entered the bidding fray—an unprecedented number that signals the growing prestige and commercial appeal of the Asian Cup.

The Formidable Gulf Challenge: UAE’s Ambition

Among Korea’s most formidable rivals is the United Arab Emirates, which brings significant political and financial clout to the contest. The UAE bid enjoys the backing of Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a key figure in global football as the majority shareholder of Premier League giants Manchester City. Having already hosted the tournament in 1996 and 2019, the UAE is aiming for a third hosting honor, leveraging its vast resources, advanced infrastructure, and proven event management credentials—all key criteria in the AFC’s evaluation matrix.

Strong Contenders from Down Under and Beyond

Australia also presents a substantial challenge, having delivered a highly praised edition of the tournament in 2015. Its modern stadiums, established tourism framework, and multicultural appeal position it as a strong and reliable candidate. Meanwhile, nations such as Indonesia, India, and Kuwait may strengthen their proposals through robust governmental backing, despite current infrastructure gaps.

A Joint Central Asian Bid and Its Complications

In a notable move reflecting contemporary sporting trends, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are exploring a collaborative joint bid. This approach, however, raises procedural questions given Kazakhstan’s membership in UEFA rather than the AFC.

Korea’s Symbolic Quest and Practical Hurdles

For Korea, the 2031 bid carries profound symbolic weight, offering a chance to host the Asian Cup for the first time in 71 years. Yet, significant hurdles remain. Korean football officials privately acknowledge a perceived organizational gap compared to West Asia’s established football powers.

A more immediate concern is the recent criticism leveled at several K League stadiums over poor pitch quality—derisively labeled “paddy field grass” by local media. With the AFC set to conduct thorough on-site inspections, Korea must either demonstrate marked improvements or present compelling renovation plans ahead of the assessors’ visits.

AFC’s Strategic Move: A Potential Two-Tournament Award

Adding another layer of complexity, the AFC is reportedly considering awarding hosting rights for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments simultaneously, a strategic move that would effectively turn the current contest into a two-cycle decision.

Qatar Looms on the Horizon for 2035

Looking further ahead, though unconfirmed officially, rumors are circulating that Qatar may enter the bidding for the 2035 edition. Fresh from hosting a widely acclaimed 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar possesses unrivalled, world-class infrastructure, exceptional organizational proficiency, and a seamless transportation network. The nation also brings deep Asian Cup hosting experience, having previously staged the tournament in 1988, 2011, and most recently in 2023. Its potential entry could redefine the competitive landscape for the later edition, setting the stage for a new era of hosting excellence in Asian football.

A Determined Final Word from Korea

Amid the mounting competition, KFA President Chung Mong-gyu remained resolute. “The candidates are all strong,” he stated, “but we will work diligently to host the tournament through fair competition.”

Persepolis leads Persian Gulf Pro League

Esteghlal Tehran squandered a golden opportunity to claim top spot in the Persian Gulf Pro League after being held to a goalless draw by lowly Zob Ahan in Esfahan during Round 17.

Earlier on Friday, Persepolis secured a crucial 2–1 victory over league leaders Sepahan in a top-of-the-table clash at Shahr-e Qods Stadium. After a goalless first half, Persepolis sprang to life in the second period. Their Uzbek winger Oston Oʻrinov broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, and compatriot Igor Sergeyev doubled the lead in the 72nd. Sepahan managed a consolation deep into added time, with Ricardo Alves converting a penalty in the 90+13th minute.

Following that result, Esteghlal would have leapfrogged into first place on goal difference had they defeated Zob Ahan, but their lackluster performance saw the chance slip away.

On Thursday, Tractor coaches by former Team Melli coach, Dragan Skocic, delivered an impressive 4–1 victory over Mes Rafsanjan at the Yadegar-e Emam Stadium in Tabriz, lifting themselves into second place ahead of Friday’s fixtures. The goals came from Mohammad Hosseinzadeh (13’), an own goal by Milad Mirzazadeh (56’), Mohammad Ebrahimi Esmaeilifar (76’), and Amir Arsalan Motahari Drodzek (84’).

All matches in the Persian Gulf Pro League continue to be played behind closed doors due to security concerns following recent unrest in Iran.


FFIRI denies any friendly match witn Algeria.

The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has officially refuted reports of a proposed friendly international match against Algeria to be held in Manchester, England, as part of Team Melli’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speculation had circulated in Algerian media, which claimed that the Algerian national team would play two high-profile friendlies in Manchester, against Brazil and Iran, ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

In a formal statement released from Tehran, the FFIRI firmly denied any such arrangements, clarifying that all official match confirmations involving Team Melli will be announced exclusively by the Federation itself, not through external or international sources.

The communiqué further confirmed that the Federation is actively in the process of finalizing two friendly matches during the next FIFA international window. Official dates and venues will be announced as soon as contracts are formally signed and ratified.

Sources close to the national team setup have indicated that head coach Amir Ghalenoei is particularly keen to schedule at least one preparatory match against an African side. In this regard, Algeria would have been an ideal opponent, given that their style and caliber closely mirror that of Iran’s confirmed World Cup group-stage opponent, Egypt.

Team Melli to leave for AFC Futsal Asian Cup

Iran’s National Futsal team will depart Tehran to Jakarta on Friday, to participate in the 18th edition of Asian Premier Futsal Competition. The defending champions are coached by Vahid Shamsaei.

Thrilling battles await at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ when it kicks off on January 27 (Tuesday) in Jakarta as 16 teams chase ultimate glory.

The 18th edition of the tournament features a host of familiar contenders, with 13 returning from the previous campaign in 2024, including the ever-present quartet of Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Thailand and Uzbekistan, who extend their record of appearing in every Finals to date.

Hosting the hard-court showpiece for the second time after 2002, Indonesia will stage the matches across two venues, with the champions to be crowned on February 7.

The first matchday opens at the Jakarta International Velodrome with a 1pm clash between Thailand (FIFA Rank: 11) and Lebanon (54) in Group B. Having thrice finished as runners-up, including in 2024, the Thais will hope to make the final breakthrough this time, while their opponents—seven-time quarter-finalists—are back for a 13th occasion, following their last appearance in 2022. At 5pm, 2016 fourth-place finishers Vietnam (20) start their eighth Finals quest against Kuwait (40), whose best placings are also fourth (2003, 2014) and are marking their 14th Finals showing.

Over at the Indonesia Arena at 3pm, Group A gets underway with Iraq (37), who placed fourth in 2018, commencing their 14th involvement against a Kyrgyz Republic (43) outfit that finished fourth twice (2006, 2007) and are contesting a 17th Finals. Indonesia (24), who registered their best finish in 2022—their most recent showing—by reaching the last eight, can expect a boisterous backing at 7pm in their 11th appearance as they face Korea Republic (57), involved for a 16th occasion and looking to better their runners-up finish from 1999.

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Having enjoyed a memorable debut in 2024 by reaching the Quarter-finals to qualify for the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024, Afghanistan (28) will be hungry for more as they gear up to face Saudi Arabia (45)—notching their fourth Finals appearance—in Group D on January 28 at 1pm at the Jakarta International Velodrome. Reigning champions IR Iran (5), the only team to have never finished outside the top three, will commence their hunt for a record-extending 14th crown at 5pm against Malaysia (70), who will feature at a 13th Finals and first since 2018.

Japan (13) go in search of a fifth title after falling well short in 2024 when they suffered their first-ever Group Stage exit and start with a Group C opener at 3pm at the Indonesia Arena against Australia (51), who are appearing at their ninth Finals and count fourth place in 2012 as their best result. A maiden success will be on the minds of four-time finalists Uzbekistan (22) ahead of their 7pm showdown against Tajikistan (47), who registered a best-ever fourth-place finish in 2024—an achievement they will aim to surpass at their 13th Finals.

Group D

Wednesday, January 28, 2026 GROUP STAGE – GROUP D

AFGHANISTAN – SAUDI ARABIA

IRAN – MALAYSIA

Friday, January 30, 2026 GROUP STAGE – GROUP D

SAUDI ARABIA – IRAN

MALAYSIA – AFGHANISTAN

Sunday, February 1, 2026 – GROUP STAGE – GROUP D

SAUDI ARABIA – MALAYSIA

IRAN – AFGHANISTAN

Taremi’s wonder strike keeps Olympiacos hopes alive

Olympiacos secured an important victory against Bayer 04 Leverkusen with a 2–0 win at the Karaiskakis Stadium, keeping their qualification hopes alive for the next stage of Europe’s premier club competition.

The “Red-and-whites” started the match aggressively and, backed by their roaring fans, took the lead as early as the 2nd minute. Rodinei delivered a corner kick, and Costinha rose highest to head the ball into the net for the opening goal.

The final score was sealed in first-half stoppage time (45+1′). Olympiacos broke quickly down the right flank through Rodinei, who played a perfectly weighted through ball to Mehdi Taremi. The experienced striker calmly finished with a thunderous right shot, sending the ball into the net and making it 2–0.

Team Melli striker Mehdi Taremi has been in superb form this season. He has scored 8 goals in 11 matches in the Greek Super League and assisted with 2 goals. In the Champions League, he has already scored against Real Madrid in addition to Leverkusen .

In the last match, Olympiacos is away to Ajax Amsterdam. A win will assure the Greek champion’s qualification to the next round.