Title: Esteghlal Veteran Defends Rival Player, Citing Unfair Treatment After Tense Tehran Derby
A Controversial Draw in the Persian Gulf Pro League
In a recent Persian Gulf Pro League match that ended in a 1-1 draw, Omid Hamedifar, a former star of Esteghlal FC now playing for Gol Gohar Sirjan, stated that his team entered the game against the respected and well-equipped Persepolis FC with a clear goal: to secure a victory. Despite being the visiting team, Gol Gohar took an early lead.
“We scored the first goal and went ahead of our opponent,” Hamedifar remarked, “but it’s a shame we ultimately couldn’t secure the three points. We had sufficient knowledge of the opposing team, and our technical staff had analyzed Persepolis well. We troubled this team, and with a bit more focus, we would have won the game.”
Disputed Refereeing and a Missed Penalty Call
The match was not without controversy. Hamedifar addressed a key moment where his teammate, Mehdi Tikdari, lost his balance in the penalty area. He asserted that the incident warranted a penalty kick for his side.
“In that situation, a Persepolis player disrupted Tikdari’s balance,” Hamedifar stated unequivocally, “and the referee should have awarded us a penalty. If our penalty had been given, the fate of the match would have changed.”
A Stand Against Fan Misconduct
The post-match discussion took a more serious turn as Hamedifar defended Tikdari from abusive chants by a section of Persepolis fans, which had visibly upset the goal-scorer.
“Everything was clear, and everyone saw what happened,” Hamedifar said. “Mehdi scored a goal and did not perform any provocative celebration. However, some fans insulted his mother, and this caused him severe distress. What was Mehdi’s fault that his mother, who is not in this world, was insulted in such a manner?”
A Veteran’s Evolving Role
Shifting focus to his personal development, the Gol Gohar midfielder reflected on his current form, noting that his dangerous challenges on the pitch have decreased compared to past seasons.
“When you play more, your experience increases,” he explained. “I am now more careful to avoid unnecessary fouls and not receive yellow cards. What is important is that I am of service to the team and can be an effective player for Gol Gohar.”
