Biography
Who is Voria Ghafouri?
Early Career and Club Beginnings
Voria Ghafouri began his path in professional football by playing for Pas Hamedan. He stayed with the team until 2010 before signing with Shahrdari Tabriz, and later played for Naft Tehran.
In July 2014, Voria Ghafouri signed a two-year contract with Sepahan. During his time there, he won the Iranian League in 2015 and was named the Persian Gulf Pro League Defender of the Year by F.F.I.R.I. At the end of the 2014 to 2015 season.
Esteghlal Career and Achievements
On June 5, 2016, Voria Ghafouri signed a two-year contract with Esteghlal, choosing to wear the number 21 shirt. His first season was hindered by injuries that limited him to 17 league appearances, but he scored his first club goal on December 28, 2017, in a win against Esteghlal Khuzestan.
He scored a winning goal against Persepolis in the Tehran derby and later served as team captain under managers like Andrea Stramaccioni. Voria Ghafouri helped Esteghlal win the Hazfi Cup in the 2017 to 2018 season and the Persian Gulf Pro League in the 2021 to 2022 season, where the team finished the entire domestic campaign unbeaten.
International Football and Playing Style
Voria Ghafouri made his debut for the Iran men's national football team in November 2014 against South Korea under coach Carlos Queiroz. He was selected for Iran's squad in both the 2015 and 2019 AFC Asian Cup tournaments.
Known for his impressive pace and accurate crosses, Voria Ghafouri was regarded as one of the top right-backs in Iran. He also functioned as a set-piece specialist who frequently took penalty kicks and free-kicks for his teams.
Activism and Retirement
Outside of sports, Voria Ghafouri became known for his public commentary on social issues in Iran, including supporting the right of women to attend football matches at stadiums. In June 2022, he announced that Esteghlal owners refused to renew his contract, which observers linked to his outspoken criticism of the government.
On May 30, 2023, Voria Ghafouri announced his retirement from professional football via an Instagram story, with his final match being a fixture between Esteghlal and Persepolis.
Birthday and age
Voria Ghafouri was born on September 20, 1987, which makes Voria 39 years old today. That birthday falls under the Virgo sign. Voria shares the date with 62 other famous people.
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