Football Match In Iran Becomes Explosive

There were shocking scenes at a football match in Iran after an object, reported to be a grenade or firecracker, exploded just a few feet from players and officials.

Moments before, Sepahan midfielder Adel Kolahkaj had picked up the device near a corner flag and casually threw it off the field.

The object then exploded once it hit the ground, which caused a brief burst of flame before there was a puff of smoke.

Officials and players were startled and then began moving away from the affected area.

No-one was hurt in the blast which happened during a quarter-final match between Iranian side Sepahan and Al Ahli of Saudi Arabia in the Asian Champions League.

The game ended 0-0.