Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has claimed that his team submitted a letter withdrawing from the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, but the regional football body refused to accept it, Championat.Asia reports.
According to Ghalenoei, the late start of Iran’s domestic league created difficulties in preparing for the tournament. He criticised the organisation of the second edition of the CAFA Cup, expressing frustration but also hope for future improvements.
The coach stressed that the competition could play an important role in regional football development if modern technologies and approaches were introduced.
Ghalenoei also praised Uzbekistan’s progress over the past decade, highlighting its focus on youth development and describing the country as one of Asia’s football leaders alongside Japan, South Korea and Qatar.
The CAFA Nations Cup 2025 final match between Iran and Uzbekistan will take place today at Olympic City Stadium in Tashkent at 19:30 (GMT+5).
