Hello, my Iranian brothers,
I just wanted to thank you for all the years I spent here on this forum. It has been a pleasure getting to know many of you, and some of you have even become my friends for the past 10 years.
I have always tried to be a balanced supporter, praising when deserved and criticizing when necessary. But this time, I have nothing negative to say about the players. Three goals were disallowed by VAR one in each match. Not a single decision from the so-called artificial intelligence seemed to go in Iran's favor. The players showed great quality, and I truly believe Iran has become one of the best national teams in the world at set pieces. I am disappointed, but that is football. However, yesterday's fixed game was an absolute disgrace.
I am writing this message to say goodbye (for now). Today, I was insulted by some Iranians simply because I said on social media I wanted the national team to qualify. So I think it is better for me to continue watching the matches away from certain people and environments.
I understand the political situation. But this regime has been there since the day I was born, and it is still there today. When I decided to support Iran, this regime was already in power. I fell in love first with Iranian football, then with the players, the culture, the music, and the country itself. I loved visiting Iran, which is why I have been there five times. But at the moment, this forum has become more about politics than football. Maybe one day I will return, when emotions have calmed down.
Even so, I sincerely wish the very best to all of you.
Thank you so much for all the kindness and love I received here.
A big hug from your Portuguese brother,
Tadeu Martins
See you one day 🤍
I just wanted to thank you for all the years I spent here on this forum. It has been a pleasure getting to know many of you, and some of you have even become my friends for the past 10 years.
I have always tried to be a balanced supporter, praising when deserved and criticizing when necessary. But this time, I have nothing negative to say about the players. Three goals were disallowed by VAR one in each match. Not a single decision from the so-called artificial intelligence seemed to go in Iran's favor. The players showed great quality, and I truly believe Iran has become one of the best national teams in the world at set pieces. I am disappointed, but that is football. However, yesterday's fixed game was an absolute disgrace.
I am writing this message to say goodbye (for now). Today, I was insulted by some Iranians simply because I said on social media I wanted the national team to qualify. So I think it is better for me to continue watching the matches away from certain people and environments.
I understand the political situation. But this regime has been there since the day I was born, and it is still there today. When I decided to support Iran, this regime was already in power. I fell in love first with Iranian football, then with the players, the culture, the music, and the country itself. I loved visiting Iran, which is why I have been there five times. But at the moment, this forum has become more about politics than football. Maybe one day I will return, when emotions have calmed down.
Even so, I sincerely wish the very best to all of you.
Thank you so much for all the kindness and love I received here.
A big hug from your Portuguese brother,
Tadeu Martins
See you one day 🤍