Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj admitted that upcoming Tehran derby moved to mid-week due to security reasons.
Tehran big giants Esteghlal and Persepolis will pit against each other in Iran pro league match week 4 on Sunday September 22. Sunday, in Iranian calendar, is mid-week day and many criticized Iran Football Federation for the schedule.
But now Mehdi Taj revealed this decision was taken due to security reasons related to Iran men’s volleyball team match in 2020 Olympic qualifications.
“There will be a volleyball match on Friday and due to security reasons, the derby moved to Sunday.” He said to TV show Salam, Sobh Bekheyr.
“I know it is better that the derby take place on Friday but the volleyball match in Olympic qualifications has changed the schedule. It will be difficult for the Police to manage both events in same day.”