We didn’t withdraw but requested to change match date: Esteghlal Official

Mehr News – TEHRAN, In a statement published in its official website, Estaghlal FC has highlighted that they haven’t withdraw from Super Cup final against Persepolis, but just requested for a change of date.

Iran Football League Organization announced on Tuesday that Super Cup title goes to Persepolis due to Esteghlal’s withdrawal from the final match that was scheduled on July 20.

Following this announcement, Esteghlal published the letter that they had sent to Iran Football League Organization, saying that there is no word relating to ‘withdrawal’ in it.

In a statement, Esteghlal requested from the organization to publish any other letter that they have which includes the official withdrawal of the team from the match.

“Announcing a 3-0 result for not playing in a match has its own formalities which should be carried out including the presence of the rival team, referees and match supervisor in the scheduled date. We ask them [Iran Football League Organization] to obey laws of football instead of adopting hasty and emotional decisions,” part of the statement reads.

“I am surprised by this decision. Everyone knows that this season is very tough because of the World Cup and the AFC Asian Cup, and because of this compactness, the performance of all league teams and their achievement for their goals are affected,” said Esteghlal coach Winfried Schaefer, Esteghlal official website reported on Tuesday.

“We oppose this decision and do not accept it,” he highlighted, adding, “even we can hold the Super Cup with the support of our common sponsor at another time in Europe because there are thousands of Esteghlal and Persepolis fans outside Iran and they are eager to see their favorite teams’ match closely.”

Iran Football League Organization hasn’t yet officially responded to Esteghlal claims.