By Country / Iran
Security Fears Cause Cancellation Of Iranian Soccer Match
July 27, 2005
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27 July 2005 (RFE/RL) -- A soccer match set for 30 July between Iran and a British team has been called off due to security concerns in connection with the recent bus and subway bombings in London.
A joint statement from the Iranian Football Federation and the Millwall Football Club says British police have evidence that "elements not associated" with the Millwall team are "hell-bent on causing problems" at the match that was to have been played in England.
Millwall has a history of attracting right wing elements. Last year, the team was charged by Britain's Football Association over racist behavior by its supporters.
The Iranian team -- which has already qualified for the 2006 World Cup finals -- has played one match during its tour of England without incident. It is next scheduled to play Portsmouth on 4 August.
(AFP/www.millwallfc.premiumtv.co.uk)