Persistence Captain’s Candid Remarks Highlight Broader Sports Infrastructure Ambitions After League Draw
In a post-match address following Persepolis Tehran’s third-week league draw against Foolad Khuzestan, team captain Omid Alishah delivered forthright comments that have resonated beyond the pitch. While expressing clear disappointment with the match outcome, his remarks underscored a deeper commitment to progress and excellence within Iranian football.
A Call for Vigilance and Improvement
Alishah began by analyzing the match itself, stating, “An unwritten rule of football is that if you don’t score, you will be scored upon. We were caught off guard on a set-piece and lost three critical points. We might not feel the impact now, but we will regret these lost points at the end of the season.” He emphasized the need for the team to improve its performance under current conditions, framing his critique as a driving force for higher standards.
Focus on Development and National Pride
The captain’s comments then shifted to the broader context of sports infrastructure, a topic of significant national importance. He highlighted the ongoing, commendable efforts to upgrade and modernize facilities, expressing a hopeful outlook for the future. Alishah optimistically noted that such development projects, while requiring time, are a testament to the country’s dedication to providing top-tier venues for athletes and fans alike.
He further praised the initial appearance of the playing surface at the Shahid-e Qods City Stadium while calling for sustained quality that matches the passion of the Iranian people. Alishah posed a constructive question focused on value and national pride: “Why should we not have infrastructure that is properly developed? Shouldn’t we have stadiums where fans, players, journalists, and everyone can enjoy themselves? This is about investing in our national sports for the benefit of all.”
Acknowledgment of Team Dynamics and Leadership
In a display of sportsmanship and respect, Alishah also took a moment to acknowledge former teammate Vahid Amiri, now with Foolad. He described Amiri as “dear, humble, and beloved,” thanking him for his past efforts and the mutual learning experience. He firmly stated that final decisions on player matters rightly rest with the head coach, demonstrating a clear respect for the team’s leadership and administrative structure.
Regarding the team’s transfer activities, the captain deferred all questions on the matter to the head coach, reinforcing the organized and hierarchical nature of the club’s management.
Alishah’s blend of on-field analysis and forward-looking commentary on sports development reflects a mature perspective focused on continuous growth and the collective ambition to elevate Iranian football on all fronts.