Why it matters:
The victory was deeply emotional for Team Iran, who dedicated their win to Saber Kazemi, the volleyball star who tragically passed away earlier in the day. Players wore black armbands and observed a moment of silence before the match to honor his memory.
The big picture:
The Islamic Solidarity Games, hosted this year by Saudi Arabia, bring together athletes from across the Muslim world to promote unity through sport. For Iran, the volleyball competition is both a test of endurance and an opportunity to reaffirm its regional athletic strength despite emotional and physical challenges.
What he is saying:
Iran’s Head Coach, Peyman Akbari, praised his team's resilience, commending their "strong spirit and teamwork in difficult emotional conditions." He added that the victory was dedicated to Kazemi's memory.
Key points:
- Iran defeated Bahrain 3–2 (25–21, 22–25, 25–16, 22–25, 15–7).
- The match saw major momentum swings, with Iran taking the lead early but Bahrain forcing a fifth set.
- Team Iran showed superior control and focus in the final set, winning by an 8-point margin.
- Players entered the court wearing black armbands and holding Kazemi’s photo in tribute.
Go deeper:
The tournament is being held in a single preliminary group featuring teams from Saudi Arabia (the host), Iran, Turkey, Bahrain, Qatar, and Chad. At the end of the group stage, the top two teams will compete in the final, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will face each other in the bronze medal match.
Iran will play its second group-stage match against Qatar on Thursday. Qatar lost its opening game to Turkey.
Iranian Volleyball Star Saber Kazemi Dies at 26 After Brain Injury Complications
M.Majdi - Mojtaba Darabi
