Rouzbeh Cheshmi, born on 24 July 1993 in Tehran, serves as an influential defensive midfielder and centre-back within the Iranian football landscape. He has navigated a complex path through the Persian Gulf Pro League, balancing club responsibilities at Esteghlal with high-stakes international appearances for the Iran national team during multiple FIFA World Cup cycles.
Early Career and Development
Cheshmi began his professional development at Paykan before transitioning to Persepolis in 2008. His early progression included a loan period to Moghavemat Tehran in 2011 to fulfill mandatory military service. After requesting a transfer in 2013, he moved to Saba Qom, where he recorded 25 appearances and a single goal during his initial campaign.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Tenure at Esteghlal
In 2015, Cheshmi signed a two-year deal with Esteghlal, opting to join the club instead of pursuing offers from the Bundesliga. Although his tenure was marked by a severe cruciate ligament injury in March 2016 and subsequent complications involving a club transfer ban, he remained a fixture for the team. He celebrated notable success with the club, securing the Persian Gulf Pro League title in the 2021–22 season, the Hazfi Cup in 2017–18 and 2024–25, and the Iranian Super Cup in 2022.
International Competition
After representing Iran at various youth levels including the U17 and U23 squads, Cheshmi debuted for the senior team in 2017. He played in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, contributing to a clean sheet against Morocco before an injury sidelined him for the remainder of the tournament. During the 2022 Qatar World Cup, he scored a pivotal injury-time goal against Wales, securing a historic victory for Iran against a European opponent.
Public Stance
On 9 February 2026, during the ongoing Iranian protests, Cheshmi publicly challenged the Ministry of Sport and Youth. He specifically objected to his inclusion on a list characterizing him as a supporter of the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Fast facts
- Born: 24 July 1993, Tehran
- Primary Positions: Defensive midfielder, centre-back
- Club: Esteghlal
- National Team Debut: 31 August 2017
- 2018 AFC Champions League All-Star Squad selection
- Won CAFA Nations Cup with Iran in 2023
Questions readers ask
Which major trophies has Rouzbeh Cheshmi won with Esteghlal?
He has won the Persian Gulf Pro League (2021–22), the Hazfi Cup (2017–18, 2024–25), and the Iranian Super Cup (2022).
What was the significance of his goal against Wales in the 2022 World Cup?
It was the winning goal in injury time, securing Iran's first World Cup victory against a European team.
.jpg)
