Title: AFC Disciplinary Committee Issues Rulings on Iranian Football Clubs
In a series of recent decisions, the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) Disciplinary and Ethics Committee has announced its rulings concerning several cases involving Iranian football entities.
Financial Penalties for National Team
The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has been directed to pay a fine of $2,250. This penalty was issued due to a delay in the entry of the Iran U-23 national team players onto the pitch for their match against Hong Kong, which was part of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers.
Suspension for Esteghlal Player
Alireza Koushki, a player for the Esteghlal club, has been handed a three-match suspension following a red card received in the 65th minute of the team’s AFC Champions League match against Al-Wehdat of Jordan. This ruling includes the automatic one-match suspension for the red card, with two additional matches added. Consequently, Koushki will be unavailable for Esteghlal’s upcoming fixtures against Al-Wehdat, Al-Wasl, and Al-Muharraq. He was also fined $1,500.
Fines for Post-Match Protocol Breach
Esteghlal players Rouzbeh Cheshmi and Monir El Haddadi have each been individually fined $5,000 for failing to participate in the post-match interview session following Esteghlal’s game against Al-Wasl. The Esteghlal club itself has also been levied a separate $5,000 fine for the same incident.
These decisions underscore the AFC’s commitment to upholding disciplinary standards and match protocols across its competitions.