The Iran soccer federation launched in Persia in 1920, but it did not reach the biggest stage until the 1978 World Cup. One year later the Iranian Revolution took place and Iranian soccer regressed under the new regime. Nevertheless, at its nucleus, the depths of Iran's national team are rooted in the Persian Kingdom – […]

Tehran (AFP) – Iran has once again denied women entry to a football stadium to watch an international match, leaving hundreds of ticketed fans locked out, Iranian media said. The World Cup qualifier against Lebanon on Tuesday night, won 2-0 by Iran, was played at the Imam Reza stadium in the northeastern city of Mashhad. […]

Tehran (AFP) – Iranian football fans faced a tricky balancing act Tuesday as they watched their team win against South Korea during a religious holiday in which they were banned from expressing joy. Many took part in mourning processions as they gathered at the 75,000-capacity Azadi ("freedom") stadium in Tehran to mark the eve of […]

Tehran (AFP) – Iran international goalkeeper Sosha Makani has been suspended for six months for "inappropriate" conduct, including the wearing of what media have dubbed "SpongeBob trousers", ISNA news agency reported on Wednesday. The Iranian football federation's morality committee cited Makani's clothing as one of the reasons for handing out the punishment. "Among the matters […]