The magnificent Azadi stadium is full up to the hilt with fans in anticipation of the kick off at 18:30 local time of the return final match between Persepolis and Kashima Antlers of Japan.

For the first time in international matches, a section is also allocated for females and families, allowing women to attend matches.

As usual for such important matches in Azadi Sport Complex, crowds have flocked to Azadi since last night with vendors reserving their space to sell all sort of merchandise including Persepolis banners and Iranian flags. Crowds from outside Tehran also use the space for sleeping before the match the next day.

This match has been sold out over a week ago as it went on-line to control black market, however, from previous experience with Iranian football, even a controlled sale of tickets on-line has resulted in thousands of ticket holders holding legitimate tickets being left behind closed doors in Azadi stadium.

The AFC has demanded strict control on the ticket sales and imposed strict guidelines on crowd safety including banning of spectators sitting on stairs leading to exits.

This match on Saturday evening is a great test for Iranian football both on and off the field. Organization and management has not been one of the great traits of Iranian administrators in football, unlike the footballers it produces. It remains to be seen who this match ends up in a positive impressions.

Persepolis is two goals behind, but it is not a lost cause at all as seen from the first game in Japan. Persepolis has Siamak Nemati suspended due to his red card.