Beitashour very motivated to play for Iran

San Jose Earthquakes right back accepted call-up to Iranian national football team for Asian Cup qualifier. The match has been scheduled for October 15 in Tehran's Azadi Stadium.

Beitashour has yet to make an international appearance for any nation. He was called by Jurgen Klinsmann to the U.S. national team ahead of its friendly against Mexico in August of 2012, but did not appear in the match. He was recalled for this past January's friendly vs. Canada, but was forced to withdraw due to injury.

“I am so happy to be here. Klinsmann invited me to the U.S. football team but I didn’t play. I would rather play for Iran football team,” Beitashour said.

“My parents are Iranian and I know about Iran football. I’m very motivated to play for my motherland team. I’d like to play a strong team such as Italy, Germany or Brazil in the 2014 World Cup,” the 26-year-old added.

In two previous Asian Cup qualifying matches, the Carlos Queiroz’s team defeated Lebanon 5-0 and was held to a 1-1 draw against Kuwait.

The top two teams in the group join Australia, Japan, North Korea and South Korea in the final.