Defending champions Islamic Republic of Iran launched their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ campaign in emphatic fashion, powering past Malaysia 4-1 in their opening Group D at Jakarta International Velodrome, Jakarta.
Malaysia showed early intent, forcing Iranian goalkeeper Bagher Mohammadi into two quick saves, both from lively attacker Awalluddin Nawi.
However, Iran wasted no time asserting their dominance, taking the lead inside the opening minute.
A defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Syaifuddin Syukri and Saad Sani gifted Mohammadhossein Derakhshani a simple tap-in to put the reigning champions ahead.
Mohammadi continued to frustrate Malaysia’s attempts, producing a crucial stop in the fifth minute when Firdaus Ambiah broke through Iran’s last line of defence.
Despite Iran’s pressure, Malaysia reached the break only trailing 1-0, still with hope of a comeback.
Malaysia defended bravely and looked dangerous on counterattacks, but Iran’s quality shone through midway in the second half.
In the 25th minute, Salar Aghapour delivered a perfect kick-in assist for Behrooz Azimi, who finished low into the corner to make it 2-0.
Just one minute later, Hossein Tayebi capitalised on a Malaysian error, firing home from the edge of the semi-circle to extend the lead to 3-0.
Iran’s confidence surged, and the fourth goal arrived in the 28th minute through Moslem Oladghobad, effectively sealing a dominant opening victory.
Malaysia managed a late consolation, with Awalluddin Nawi finally finding the net to reward their persistence, but it proved only a minor blemish on Iran’s commanding performance.
The result places Iran on maximum points alongside Afghanistan, who earlier defeated Saudi Arabia 3-0, setting up an early battle at the top of the group.
Iran’s convincing win sends a clear message to their rivals as they chase another continental crown, while Malaysia will need to regroup quickly with tougher challenges ahead.
With both Iran and Afghanistan sitting on three points, Group D is already shaping into a competitive race for the knockout stage.
Credit Photo : AFC
