The Jordan women’s team have requested a ‘gender verification check’ against an Iranian goalkeeper who played against them.
The president of Jordan’s FA, Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, demanded an investigation into whether or not Iranian goalkeeper Zohreh Koudaei is a man.
Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, who was previously vice president of FIFA has posted a letter which has been sent to the Asian Football Federation, in which a ‘gender verification check’ has been requested. It goes on to suggest that given the Iranian Women Football team has a history with gender and doping issues” an independent investigation should be conducted.
On 25 September, Iran qualified for the 2022 Women’s Asian Cup for the first time in its history, following a 4-2 win on penalties after a goalless draw against Jordan.
Koudaei, the Iran shot-stopper, saved two penalties as the win ensured Iran’s qualification for the Asia Cup.
It is the first time in the country’s history they have reached the finals, with the Iranian manager, Maryam Irandoost firmly denying the allegations and insisting Jordan are just looking for excuses.
“The medical staff have carefully examined each player on the national team in terms of hormones to avoid any problems in this regard, and so I tell all fans not to worry,” Irandoost told the sports news site Varzesh 3 on Sunday.
“We will provide any documentation that the Asian Confederation of Football wishes without wasting time.
“The Jordanian team considered themselves the big favourite to qualify . . . and when they lost . . . it was natural to seek relief under false pretences, and to escape responsibility for this failure.”
OJB SPORT 