His legendary status is further confirmed by polls conducted by the Asian Football Confederation and Iran’s own Navad program, where he was chosen as the best striker in the history of the Asian Cup and the best striker after the Iranian Revolution of 1979. Daei still holds the record for the most goals scored in the Asian Cup (14 goals).
The charity match in Ardabil was not just another exhibition game for Daei—it was a symbolic homecoming. Captaining the Namavaran Ardabil team allowed him to once again don the captain’s armband, lead players onto the field, and remind the audience of the power of sport in uniting people.
Beyond Football: Daei as a Coach, Entrepreneur, and Public Figure
After his playing career, Ali Daei quickly transitioned into coaching. In 2006, he became a player-coach for Saipa Club, later managing the Iranian national team in 2007. His coaching career, though filled with ups and downs, showed his commitment to developing Iranian football.
