January 31 – Media representatives who accosted Iraq coach Jesus Casas at his post-match press conference following Monday’s shock Asian Cup last-16 defeat by Jordan have been banned from covering all Asian Football Confederation tournaments in the future.
Iraq were beaten 3-2, conceding goals in the 95th and 97th minutes, and afterwards furious Iraqi journalists were seen shouting at Casas and more than a dozen stormed out while pointing fingers at the Spanish coach. Some were led away by officials and security when they approached the podium.
“The AFC strongly condemns any type of unruly and aggressive behaviour and takes a zero-tolerance stance against such actions,” a statement said.
“The AFC is deeply disappointed by the actions witnessed during the post-match press conference of the tie between Iraq and Jordan and have taken the swift decision to bar the responsible individuals from covering not only the 2023 Asian Cup but also future AFC tournaments,” the AFC added, revoking the accreditation of the culprits.
“Accreditation is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to adhere to ethical standards, and those who violate these standards will face the consequences.”
“When faced with disruptive behaviour that poses a risk to the safety of persons at our events, the AFC will act swiftly to protect our stakeholders and the reputation and sanctity of our tournaments. We are confident that our response on this occasion will serve as a deterrent by sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.”
The Iraq Football Association has separately said it will explore potential legal action alongside a ban of its own.
“We followed with great dismay the events that took place at the press conference of our national team coach, Jesús Casas, after the match against Jordan, in a scene that was more painful than the undeserved exit of our team from the Asian Cup,” a federation statement read.
“These events have no connection to the authentic Iraqi media that is known for its honourable positions, and the behaviour that took place is a black mark in Iraqi media history, caused by certain names that took advantage of their unexpected presence at the conference.
“We denounce the blatant and abhorrent behaviour that occurred against the coach, and we confirm that we have decided not to deal with these media personnel who seek to cause chaos in the future.
“We will follow legal methods to restore the coach’s reputation and approach the relevant authorities to explain what happened.”
Meanwhile, Football Australia is providing support to Australian referee Alireza Faghani, who oversaw the match, after he became the subject of targeted online abuse for giving a controversial second yellow card to Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein for excessive celebrations.
As Iraq fans rounded on Faghani, who was born in Iran, a petition was circulated calling on FIFA to suspend him, prompting Football Australia to declare: “The safety and wellbeing of all Football Australia staff and members of the Australian football community is our priority.”
“Football Australia is in constant contact with Alireza [Faghani] and is providing he and his family with all the support they require.”
The AFC said it would not comment on individual refereeing performances but denounced the targeting of officials.
“We strongly condemn any form of threat, harassment, or disclosure of personal information targeting our referees, players, officials and all stakeholders.”
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1720474429labto1720474429ofdlr1720474429owedi1720474429sni@w1720474429ahsra1720474429w.wer1720474429dna1720474429
