CULTURE — February 14, 2026
Afghan Futsal Goalkeeper Mohammad Javad Safari Confident in Iran League After National Team Experience
Afghanistan's top futsal goalkeeper Mohammad Javad Safari expresses confidence in Iran's Premier League based on his national team experience, after helping Giti Pasand beat Mes Sôngon to reclaim the top spot.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Afghanistan International — 2 min read

Mohammad Javad Safari, the primary goalkeeper for Afghanistan's national futsal team and a player for Iran's Giti Pasand Isfahan, stated that his experience with the national team and World Cup competitions means he has no fear of playing in Iran's Premier Futsal League.
Safari, who won the Iranian league title with Giti Pasand last season, started as the main goalkeeper in their 23rd-week match against table leaders Mes Sôngon. Baqer Mohammadi, Iran's national team goalkeeper, was also on the roster, but Safari protected the goal effectively while providing an assist to teammate Saeed Ahmad Abbasi.
Giti Pasand won 6-2, reclaiming the top position with 56 points. Safari's performance was described by Futsal News Base as "flawless and admirable."
He thanked Giti Pasand's coaching staff and teammates, especially Baqer Mohammadi for his encouragement and support. With three matches left in the season, Safari said each feels like a final as the team defends its championship.
On Afghanistan's performance at the 2026 Asian Futsal Championship, Safari said the Khorsan Lions started well, but losses to Iran and Japan did not diminish the team's value. He added that the players will use these experiences to compete strongly in World Cup qualifiers.
Safari emphasized that Afghan players' participation in Iran's top futsal league benefits the sport's growth in Afghanistan, crediting the league and Iranian officials for their effective role in its progress.
Read the original reporting at Afghanistan International →
Reliability assessment
Direct interview with named athlete providing on-record statements and concrete, checkable details including specific match (teams, score 6-2, standings 56 points), opponent, teammates, and tournament references.
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Afghanistan International
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Culture — Mohammad Javad Safari, Afghanistan futsal, Iran futsal league, Giti Pasand, Asian Futsal Championship
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