Moradi explained that given the high-stakes nature of the Hazfi Cup Final, the federation assigned its top officiating team to the match.

“For a game of this magnitude, it was natural to assign our best referees,” he said. “Mooud Bonyadifar, the top-ranked elite referee in the country, officiated the match, with assistants Ildrem and Ataei, both among the best this season. Ahmed Mohammadi operated the VAR, and Farhad Moraveji was in the AVAR role.”

Moradi emphasized that the match was well-controlled despite its pressure and intensity.

“Aside from one debatable moment, there were no decisions that significantly affected the outcome. The referee team handled the match professionally and effectively.”

He also clarified the post-match review process:

“Refereeing performance is immediately reviewed after every match by an independent technical analysis team within the Referees Committee. We’ve always maintained a transparent and honest approach—especially in this first season using VAR in Iran.”

VAR Controversy Explained
Addressing the specific incident that drew protest from Malavan, Moradi detailed the following:

“We received the referee's match report on Saturday morning and convened a review panel right away. Only one situation required deeper analysis. In the final minutes of the first half, there was contact between an Esteghlal player and a Malavan player just outside the penalty area.”

Moradi continued:

“Referee Bonyadifar requested a VAR review during the match. VAR officials confirmed the contact occurred outside the box but did not consider it a foul. However, after further analysis by our expert panel, it was concluded that a foul should have been called.”

Based on this re-evaluation, disciplinary action is likely:

“If this is confirmed as a clear VAR error, the official responsible may face suspension until the mid-season break,” Moradi stated.

He concluded by affirming the committee’s commitment to accountability and professionalism:

“We have no hesitation in acknowledging mistakes. Our goal is to continuously raise the standard of officiating, and that means learning and improving from every match.”