Asian Qualifier 26: The Inspiring Journey of Mehdi Mahdavikia
Return to Iran and Retirement
Mahdavikia returned to Iran in 2010, playing for Steel Azin and later Persepolis. He retired after the 2012-13 season, with his farewell match against Hamburger SV.
International Career
Mahdavikia was a standout player for the Iranian national team, earning accolades like the Asian Young Footballer of the Year (1997) and Asian Footballer of the Year (2003). He played in two World Cups (1998, 2006) and four Asian Cups (1996, 2000, 2004, 2007). Known for his speed, vision, and dribbling, he captained the national team from 2006 to 2009.
Managerial Career
Post-retirement, Mahdavikia has been involved in coaching, founding the KIA Football Academy in 2015 and working as a youth coach at Hamburger SV. In 2019, he obtained his UEFA A Licence.
Famous Matches
Mahdavikia’s notable performances include Hamburg’s match against Juventus in the Champions League and Iran’s 4-3 victory over South Korea in the 2004 Asia Cup.
