President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al-Sabah says he disagrees with the football teams playing in neutral venues.

In March 2016, AFC had ruled the clubs from Saudi Arabia and Iran had to play each other at neutral venues.

The decision was taken after two countries failed to resolve their political differences ahead of a deadline set by Asian football's governing body.

“I hope that AFC will find a solution to solve the problem. It could be a bigger problem if we don't find a solution. Sports and politics should be kept apart,” Sheikh Ahmad told reporters in Tehran.

Sheikh Ahmad said he has traveled to Tehran to congratulate Reza Salehi Amiri for being elected as President of Iran’s National Olympic Committee.

"We had very good talks with Amiri over the development of sport in Iran. We also discussed Iran's hosting of OCA Executive Council meeting and boosting role of Iran's national Olympic academy. "

“He (Salehi Amiri) will bring Iran’s sports family together once again. I hope that Iran sends a large delegation to the 2018 Asian Games. I wish your athletes all the best in the Asian Games,” the Kuwaiti said.

“From now on, I am sure it’s got everything lined up to be a golden era again in Iran,” Sheikh Ahmad added.