Iranian Referee Mooud Bonyadifard Surrounded by Prayers Ahead of Indonesia National Team vs Japan Match

Kapanlagi.com - The exciting match of Group C in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers will soon take place! The Indonesia National Team will face the Asian football giant, Japan, at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta, on Friday, November 15, 2024. This match is not just an ordinary duel; it is a major test for the Garuda squad, which is determined to maintain their chances of advancing to the next stage.

However, the spotlight is not only on the players' actions on the field but also on the referee who will officiate this match. Mooud Bonyadifard, an Iranian referee with a FIFA license, has been appointed as the match official.

As the crucial Indonesia vs Japan match approaches, Bonyadifard has captured public attention with his activities on social media. Through his verified Instagram account @mooud.bonyadifard, he recently shared a selfie accompanied by an inspiring message that boosts motivation.

1. Wise Message on Social Media

The Iranian referee, Mooud Bonyadifard, is now the center of attention ahead of the intense match between the Indonesian National Team and Japan in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium.

Amidst the shadows of controversy surrounding his track record, the 39-year-old man is receiving an outpouring of prayers and support, especially from Iranian netizens.

In a post on his official Instagram account, @mooud.bonyadifard, Mooud shared a photo of himself radiating spirit, accompanied by a wise message in Farsi: "Give wings to your hopes. They will find their own way."

However, he chose to limit the comments section on that post, a smart move to maintain focus and avoid criticism that could disrupt concentration, considering that the referee's position often comes under sharp scrutiny when controversial decisions arise.

2. Iranian Netizens' Support for Mooud Bonyadifard

The post received a warm welcome from Iranian netizens who showered prayers for Mooud's safety, hoping that he could carry out his duties with full justice.

One striking comment read, "Brother, Allah Save You," reflecting the deep belief of the Iranian people that Mooud, an experienced FIFA referee, is capable of handling pressure in crucial matches.

This support reaffirms Mooud's respected reputation in his homeland, even though he has been involved in controversy while officiating local matches such as the fierce duel between Persepolis and Esteghlal.

3. Mooud's Profile, from Referee to Sports Official

Mooud Bonyadifard is a figure who is not only a FIFA-licensed referee since 2013 but also an influential sports leader in Iran.

As the Director General of Sports and Youth of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, as well as a sports teacher in various schools, Mooud has had an impressive career, starting from the field as a junior football player, then transitioning to coaching and officiating.

With a master's degree in sports management and a doctorate in physical education, he demonstrates a deep commitment to the advancement of sports, both at home and on the international stage.

This diverse experience makes many people confident in his ability to face significant challenges in the Indonesia vs Japan match.

However, behind his achievements, Mooud has also become a controversial figure, following several past decisions that have sparked debate among fans and sports observers.

4. Controversy in the Iran League: Persepolis vs Esteghlal

Although known as an elite referee, Mooud's journey in the world of Iranian football has been full of twists and turns. One of the hottest moments occurred when he officiated a fierce duel between two giants, Persepolis and Esteghlal.

In that match, Mooud was accused of bias, with some even calling him the "12th player" for Esteghlal, which sparked outrage from the Persepolis camp, leading them to request that Mooud no longer officiate their matches.

However, despite the sharp scrutiny, the Iranian football authorities continued to entrust major matches to Mooud, affirming that despite being surrounded by controversy, his abilities as a referee remain recognized and respected.

5. Incident in Liga 1 Indonesia: Persija vs PSM

The name Mooud Bonyadifard has become a topic of conversation among Indonesian football fans, especially after his role in the 2017 Liga 1 match between Persija Jakarta and PSM Makassar, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

However, the main focus was on his controversial decision in the 85th minute when he disallowed a goal by Wiljan Pluim from PSM Makassar on the grounds of handball.

This decision sparked strong protests from PSM, who felt aggrieved, and although replays showed a debate regarding the validity of the decision, this incident ensured that Mooud's name would be remembered.

This serves as evidence that despite having experience, Mooud's leadership is not free from pressure and criticism, especially during crucial moments.

6. Has Mooud Bonyadifard ever officiated a match in Indonesia before?

Of course, he was in the spotlight when he officiated an exciting Liga 1 Indonesia match between Persija Jakarta and PSM Makassar in 2017, which was not without various controversies that attracted public attention.

7. Why does Mooud Bonyadifard receive many prayers from Iranian netizens?

This Iranian referee is not just an official on the field, but also a figure who is respected and admired in his homeland.

The moral support flowing from netizens through their prayers shows a great hope that he can carry out his duties with full integrity and fairness.

(kpl/rmt)