### **Parviz Ghelichkhani: The Immortal Lion of Iranian Football**  

Few players embody the golden age of Iranian football like **Parviz Ghelichkhani**—a warrior whose name still echoes through the annals of Asian football history. From the rugged streets of Tehran to the grandest stages in Asia, Ghelichkhani’s journey was one of relentless passion, unmatched versatility, and an unbreakable bond with Team Melli.  

#### **The Rise of a Street Football Prodigy**   Born in the working-class neighborhoods of Tehran, young Parviz first showcased his athletic brilliance not on the football pitch, but on the volleyball court. His competitive fire led him to wager small sums in street games, but destiny had bigger plans. Discovered by **Amir Assefi**, the legendary coach of **Kayan FC**, Ghelichkhani transitioned from a raw talent into a polished phenomenon.  

At just **18**, he made his debut against the mighty **Shahin FC**—a match Kayan lost 3-2, but one that announced the arrival of a future legend. His fearless dribbling, tactical intelligence, and thunderous strikes made him an instant fan favorite.  

#### **Conquering Asia: The Birth of a Legend**   Ghelichkhani’s international career exploded at the **1964 Tokyo Olympics**, where his performances earned him the nickname **"Brave Kayani."** But it was in **1968** that he etched his name into immortality—scoring a **30-yard rocket against Israel** to secure Iran’s **first-ever Asian Cup triumph**.  

His dominance continued:   - **1972 Asian Cup** – Led Iran to back-to-back titles   - **1974 Asian Games** – Captained Iran to **gold on home soil**   - **1976 Asian Cup** – Became the **only player in history** to win **three Asian Cups**  

#### **The Heartbreak and the Heroics**   The **1974 World Cup qualifiers** saw Ghelichkhani at his peak. In a **pulsating clash against Australia**, he scored **twice in 30 minutes**, sending **120,000 fans at Aryamehr Stadium** into delirium. Though Iran fell short of qualification, his legacy was already cemented.  

#### **The Versatile Maestro**   Ghelichkhani was a **complete footballer**—equally devastating as a **defensive anchor, playmaking midfielder, or attacking dynamo**. Despite his modest height, his **aerial prowess** and **lethal long-range strikes** became trademarks.  

#### **The Unfinished Dream**   His final act in Team Melli colors came in **1977**, just before Iran’s historic **1978 World Cup** campaign. Though excluded from the final squad, his influence endured—**captaining Iran at the 1972 Munich Olympics** and inspiring a golden generation.  

#### **Legacy: The Eternal Captain**   Ghelichkhani wasn’t just a player; he was **Iranian football’s soul**. A leader who **refused lucrative European moves** (Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Nuremberg) out of loyalty to his nation. A warrior who **won everything in Asia**. A legend whose **three Asian Cup titles remain unmatched**.  

Today, his name is whispered with reverence—**a symbol of pride, resilience, and undying love for the beautiful game.**  

Club: Pas

D.O.B: 04.Nov.46

Born: Tehran

Height: 173 cm

Weight: 72 Kg

International Debut: East Germany 06-Oct-64

Post: Defender/Midfield