Iran’s 14th AFC futsal title after thrilling penalty shootout reinforces its Asian dominance

By Mohammad Ali Haqshenas When the roar inside Jakarta’s packed arena reached a deafening crescendo and 16,500 Indonesian fans sensed history, Iran’s futsal players answered the call the only way champions know how. Composed amid chaos, resilient under high pressure, and clinical when it mattered most, Iran once again ascended to the pinnacle of Asian futsal, edging hosts Indonesia on penalties to secure a record-extending 14th AFC Futsal Asian Cup title. This was no routine victory, though, nor a comfortable one. It took nerves of steel to cross the finish line for Vahid Shamsaei’s young and extremely talented squad. The summit clash pushed Iran’s nerve, identity, and legacy to the limit –...