Iran Celebrates Qualification for World League 2013 in Volleyball

Iran has had impressive victories during its past volleyball competitions. Iran's captain called his team's World-League-qualifying victory over Japan one of the best days of his life at a post-game press conference. Coach Julio Velasco thanked the whole family of Iranian volleyball - men, women, players, staff and supporters - for making the win possible; saying: “Iran volleyball has entered the world sphere but for more success we are in need of changes. First of all I would like to congratulate the big family of Iran volleyball and the authorities of this country for the win. Volleyball is a family sport. The sport of volleyball needs the presence of women since it is a family sport. Volleyball is free of fighting and impoliteness. So, all the family members should participate in it. In the past two years, many players worked for volleyball, and the players paid attention to my recommendations and got a good result finally. This victory does not only belong to the players. The players of the national B team achieved a title in Vietnam, and all those who are working in the federation have contributed. The individual mentality in volleyball should be removed since it is a team sport and about work and cooperation.”

  Iran's team captain, Alireza Nadi said: "winning today against Japan and getting to the World League makes it one of the best days of my life. My team mates did a good job and played very well. We were familiar with their strong points and that was a key factor in our win."

Iran came into the series against Japan having just overcome the tough assignment of beating Egypt in Cairo. As with the Netherlands and Portugal, it was the first time either team had played on home soil – though that didn’t seem to favor Egypt as Iran won the two-match playoff in an impressive style.

While Iran had its competition, the 15,000 fans filling Azadi Hall in Tehran cheerfully watched their home team continue to dominate the visitors, with celebrations reaching a fever pitch when Iran won the first set – Iran had already won the first leg 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-23) and only needed to win a set or have a superior points ratio to gain their first berth in the World League.

World No. 14 Iran secured an historic spot in the 2013 FIVB World League after defeating Japan 3-0 (25-16, 25-17, 25-21) in Tehran in the second leg of a two-match qualification series.

And thanks to Farhad Ghaemi, who top scored with 11 points, with regular scoring machine Shahram Mahmoudi ably supporting with 10, when 15,000 fans saw Iran continue to dominate their visitors.

It was Iran's sixth successive win against world No. 19 Japan dating back to last year. Like in game one, Captain Tatsuya Fukuzawa top scored with 10 points but this time he was joined by Kunihiro Shimizu with the same number.

Iran became the 26th country to qualify for the World League in what will be the 24th edition of the annual event next year.

In our turn, we are also wishing the best for the Iranian volleyball team.