**Ali Daei: The Immortal Titan of Iranian Football**  

Few names in football history command the reverence of Ali Daei – the barrel-chested marksman who became Asia's first global superstar and still stands as international football's most prolific goalscorer. His journey from the dusty pitches of Ardabil to the hallowed turf of Munich's Olympiastadion remains the gold standard for every Iranian footballer dreaming of greatness.

**The Making of a Legend (1990-1996)**
Daei's legend began not in Europe, but in the crucible of Tehran's football wars. At Bank Tejarat, his 28 goals in 1993-94 announced his arrival. But it was at Persepolis where he became myth - his thunderous strikes and aerial dominance making him the league's most feared forward. The 1996 Asian Cup became his continental coronation; his four-goal demolition of South Korea remains the tournament's most iconic individual performance.

**Conquering Europe (1997-1999)**
When Arminia Bielefeld gambled on the 28-year-old in 1997, skeptics scoffed. Daei responded with 7 Bundesliga goals for a relegated side - including a legendary volley against Bayern Munich that made Franz Beckenbauer stand up and take notice. That strike directly led to his historic 4 million DM move to Bayern, where he became:
- First Asian to score in Champions League
- First Iranian to win Bundesliga (1999)
- Scorer of crucial goals against Schalke and Wolfsburg

**International Colossus (1993-2006)**
While club success was impressive, Daei's true legacy was forged in Team Melli colors:
- **109 international goals** (world record until 2021)
- Scored in 3 separate World Cup qualifying campaigns
- Captain at 2006 World Cup aged 37
- Architect of Iran's 2-1 win over USA at 1998 World Cup

His 2001 four-goal masterclass against Laos - where he scored every possible way (header, volley, penalty, free-kick) - epitomized his complete striker's arsenal.

**The Warrior's Twilight (2002-2007)**
Even in his veteran years, Daei broke new ground:
- Became first Iranian to play in Qatar Stars League (Al-Sadd)
- Returned home to lead Persepolis to 2008 Hazfi Cup
- Played professionally until age 38 with Saipa

**Beyond the Pitch**
Daei's influence transcended football:
- UN Goodwill Ambassador
- Owns Daei Sports Academy nurturing next generation
- Managed Team Melli in 2022 WC qualifiers
- His #9 jersey retired by Persepolis

**The Immortal Legacy**
Today, every Iranian striker lives in Daei's shadow. His records may eventually fall, but his status as the man who proved Asian footballers could compete with Europe's elite remains untouched. From the streets of Ardabil to the pinnacle of world football, Ali Daei didn't just play the game - he redefined what was possible for an entire continent.

Club:   Saba Battery D.O.B: 21.Mar.69

Born: Ardabil

Height: 189 cm

Weight: 82 Kg International Debut: Oman 23.Jun.93

Position: Forward