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Fcbayern - Bayern have confirmed a friendly
match against Iranian champions Persepolis in the capital Tehran, to take
place during the Munich club's Dubai training camp from 6-16 January. The
match on 13 January will be held at the 110,000 capacity Asadi stadium,
where Germany contested a friendly international in October 2004.
Bayern's Iranian midfielder Ali Karimi will have special reason to look
forward to the game, as he appeared for Persepolis before switching to Al-Ahly
in Dubai from 2002-5.
Hoeneß appeals for communication
Anticipating criticism from the political world, Uli Hoeneß vigorously
defended the Bavarians' decision to play in Tehran. "It would be a mistake
not to go there. Boycotts have never solved problems," the Bayern general
manager declared on Thursday. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has
attracted worldwide condemnation for recent anti-Semitic remarks.
"I believe people should always talk. You don't get wars if people are
talking," the 54-year-old continued, emphasising the fact the invitation to
play had come from the club and not the government.
One friendly in Dubai cancelled
Meanwhile, one of the planned friendlies during the club's stay in the
United Arab Emirates has been cancelled following the sudden death of
potentate Sheikh Maktum bin Raschid al-Maktum. A game against an Arabian
all-star team scheduled for 11 January will no longer take place as it falls
within a week of national mourning.
Apart from the Tehran trip, Bayern will probably contest only one friendly
actually in Dubai, a meeting with FC Zurich on 15 January. "We have two
confirmed fixtures, and that's enough," Hoeneß commented.
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