Hamedan: Former AFC Player and Young Player of the Year Mehdi Mahdavikia drove from the Iranian capital Tehran to Hamedan to make a surprise visit to footballers with alternate abilities who are taking part in a tournament running alongside the ongoing AFC U-14 Championship.

The Team Melli legend, who represented Iran at four AFC Asian Cups and two FIFA World Cups, spent time chatting to the participants of the event and also get to see the potential Iran stars of the future as the AFC U14 Championship hosts defeated Timor Leste 4-1 at the Hajibabaie Stadium.

“We must realise how important football is for everyone including the people with alternate abilities,” the AFC Social Responsibility Programme’s Ambassador told www.the-afc.com.

“There are many important things in life and being connected with disabled people, encouraging them and letting them play gives you satisfaction.

“The AFC has done a great job in recognising these needs and addressing their requirements and I am more than happy to be part of this,” he added.

The head of the AFC’s Social Responsibility Department Dr. Annathurai also praised the former Hamburg and Persepolis winger for showing his enthusiasm and readiness for social cause.

“Despite his busy schedule, he managed time to travel from Tehran and encourage these kids, they will never forget this moment,” he said.
“It was not sure whether he would make it or not but he himself said he would be driving from Tehran to Hamedan – which is approximately 350 kilometers away from the Iranian capital.”

Madahvikia and former China women’s international Bai Lili were appointed as AFC Grassroots Ambassadors to help the Member Associations develop their grassroots football back in 2013.