Saudi Arabia and Iran have reached a groundbreaking agreement to resume home-and-away football matches between club sides after years of strained relations. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the Saudi Arabian Football Federations (SAFF) and the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), which will pave the way for matches to be played on their home turfs.
This historic deal comes at a crucial time as the playoff stages of the 2023-2024 AFC Champions League saw Qatari teams exiting earlier than expected. The MoU will not only promote football in the two countries but also strengthen ties between the federations.
Yasser Al Misehal, President of SAFF, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, stating that it will foster connections between the two nations, benefit the youth and women in football, and create opportunities through the beautiful game. Mehdi Taj, President of FFIRI, echoed the sentiment, calling it a truly historic day for both nations with a love for football and immense potential.
The AFC has applauded the MoU as a reflection of the commitment of both federations in fostering closer ties and providing a more exciting and engaging experience for fans and players alike. The agreement demonstrates a spirit of competition and camaraderie, allowing Saudi Arabian and Iranian clubs to compete on their home grounds and visit each other’s stadiums.
Saudi Arabia and Iran have experienced turbulent relations in recent years, with ties being severed in 2016 following an attack on the Saudi diplomatic mission in Iran during protests. Football matches between the two countries have been played on neutral ground since then. However, with this deal, passionate fans across Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Asia can look forward to a thrilling new era in club and national team football.
In the upcoming Asian Champions League campaign, several international superstars from the Saudi side, including Cristiano Ronaldo, will kick off their matches. Al Nassr, featuring Ronaldo, will compete against Persepolis at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on September 19. Al Hilal, with Neymar, and Al Ittihad, with Karim Benezama, will also travel to Iran during the group phase.
The resumption of home-and-away football matches between Saudi Arabia and Iran marks a significant milestone in their relationship and offers fans and players an incredible opportunity to witness and participate in the sport they love.
