Iran 'to play' at least one friendly in Türkiye before World Cup

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·19 May 2026

Iran 'to play' at least one friendly in Türkiye before World Cup

According to Tasnim, Iran departed on Monday for Antalya, Türkiye, to play a pre-World Cup friendly, with Gambia on 29 May the only confirmed opponent.

The travelling party comprises 22 players plus coaching staff. Iran also hope to arrange a second warm-up during their stay.

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The squad will use their time in Türkiye to complete USA visa formalities.

A meeting in Istanbul on Saturday was described as very constructive, aimed at ensuring Iran can take part in the tournament.

Iran are in Group G and will base themselves in Tucson, Arizona. They face New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June, Belgium on 21 June, then Egypt in Seattle on 26 June. The World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July.

Source: L'Équipe