15 Amazing Facts About Khodadad Azizi: Life, Career, and Personal Story

3. Football Beginnings: From Sandlots to Stardom

At the age of 16, Azizi’s raw talent was noticed while playing for a local team in Mashhad. He joined the Khorasan Youth Team, where his speed and goal-scoring ability quickly set him apart.

In 1987, he was scouted by Abu Moslem, a Mashhad-based professional team. Here, Azizi honed his skills and emerged as a standout player, paving the way for his entry into Iran’s national football scene.

Early Career Highlights

Azizi’s journey to professional football began with Abu Moslem, where he played until 1992. His performances were marked by a rare combination of agility, strategy, and an unrelenting passion for the game.

In 1993, he joined the Iran U-23 national team, where his performances caught the attention of coaches and fans alike, earning him a spot on Iran’s senior national team shortly after.

The Golden Year: 1996

The year 1996 marked the pinnacle of Azizi’s career. Competing in the AFC Asian Cup, Azizi played a crucial role in Iran’s success, dazzling fans with his speed, assists, and goals. His exceptional performance earned him the title of AFC Player of the Year, a rare and prestigious honor.

World Cup Heroics: The Miracle in MelbourneOn November 29, 1997, during the second leg of the 1998 FIFA World Cup qualification playoff against Australia, Azizi solidified his place in Iranian sports history.

Trailing 2–0 in Melbourne, Iran faced elimination. Azizi delivered a stunning assist to Karim Bagheri, who scored Iran’s first goal. Minutes later, Azizi capitalized on a pass from Ali Daei, slotting the ball past Australia’s goalkeeper to secure a dramatic 2–2 draw. The result sent Iran to the World Cup for the first time in 20 years.

Azizi’s heroics in this match earned him the nickname “Asian Cheetah”, a title that captures his unparalleled speed and agility.