TEHRANTIMES - Iran has lost one of its four automatic places for the group stages of the Asian Champions League.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) released the breakdown of direct entrants for the 2015 edition and Iran’s slots in the competitions have been reduced to three places.

At the moment, four Iranian outfits, namely Sepahan, Esteghlal, Tractor Sazi and Foolad are participating in the Asian Champions League.

“The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has reduced one of Iran’s places in the Asian Champions League. We have no option but to strengthen our infrastructures according to FIFA and AFC standards,” Mehdi Taj, head of Iran's league organization, said that in a press conference on Sunday.