TULSA, Okla. – Tulsa Roughnecks FC and the city’s soccer community offered their condolences on Thursday following the announcement that former club legend Iraj Danaeifard had passed away earlier this week at the age of 67.
According to a report in the Tehran Times, Danaeifard died of cardiac arrest at Namazi Hospital in Shiraz, Iran. One of the most popular players for the Roughnecks during his career, Danaeifard made 90 appearances for the Roughnecks across both outdoor and indoor soccer after arriving at the club for the 1980 season.
Danaeifard had previously played professionally in his native Iran and represented the national team 17 times during his career. His international career was highlighted at the 1978 FIFA World Cup when he became the first Iranian player to score for his country at the event in a 1-1 draw against Scotland in the group stage.
In addition to the Roughnecks, other members of the Tulsa soccer community have also been sharing memories of Danaeifard on social media in tribute.
We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Tulsa Roughneck Iraj Danaeifard. pic.twitter.com/3XsxX8mwqN
— Tulsa Roughnecks FC (@RoughnecksFC) December 12, 2018
Iraj danaeifard scored Iran’s first world cup goal against Scotland in 1978. Not many knew him as he left us today. Rest in Peace #IrajDanaeifard pic.twitter.com/cFNCUCLmWU
— gfar (@gfar__) December 12, 2018
Former Tulsa Roughneck Iraj Danaeifard has died at 67.
— James Aydelott (@jamesaydelott) December 14, 2018
I loved watching him play, so skilled w/ the ball, shooting, dribbling and a great defender.
Played against him in a couple of indoor soccer games. He was so much better than anyone on the field.https://t.co/745woF1bCe
RIP Iraj. RT @RoughnecksFC: We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Tulsa Roughneck Iraj Danaeifard. pic.twitter.com/aFkWt29F1t
— TSC Hurricane (@tschurricane) December 13, 2018
aw, man... Iraj Danaeifard, Tulsa Roughnecks star, passes away in Iran.
— Redforkian (@redforkian) December 13, 2018
I have many, many fond memories of going to Roughnecks games with my family.
ps.. @NewsOn6 would it be possible to CC the video? I have a deaf relative I'd like to send this to.https://t.co/aJC4OTVfU1
RIP Iranian Footballer Iraj Danaeifard who scored the 1st goal for Iran at the FIFA World Cup in their 1-1 draw vs Scotland in 1978. Also played for the Tulsa Roughnecks team that won the 1983 Soccer Bowl. Condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and fellow #TeamMelli Fans.
— Captain Simon Pirooz (@SimonTheCaptain) December 13, 2018