Antalya – Iran national football team concluded their World Cup preparations on a positive note, securing a 2-0 victory over Mali in a friendly match in Turkey on Thursday, ahead of their departure to their tournament base in Mexico.
Goals from Saeid Ezatolahi and Ramin Rezaeian ensured a comfortable win for Iran, capping off a strong run of form in their pre-tournament fixtures.
Strong Warm-Up Record in Antalya
Iran’s preparations in the Turkish resort city of Antalya have included four friendly matches this year, resulting in three wins and one defeat.
The team’s preparations have taken place amid limited competitive football exposure, following disruptions in domestic football after regional tensions escalated earlier this year.
Departure to Mexico Base in Tijuana
Team officials confirmed that the squad has secured travel clearance to Mexico and will depart Turkey on Saturday for their World Cup base in Tijuana.
Iran will operate from Tijuana during the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19.
However, uncertainty remains over entry clearance for matches scheduled in the United States.
Visa Issues Cloud Tournament Build-Up
While Iran have obtained visas for Mexico, officials are still awaiting clearance for entry into the United States, where two of their group-stage matches are scheduled.
The team is set to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, followed by a final group match against Egypt in Seattle.
Iranian football authorities have described visa approvals as a key concern ahead of their opening fixture against New Zealand on June 15.
Political Context Around Participation
US officials have stated there is no objection to the team entering the country, but have indicated that individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will not be permitted to accompany the delegation.
Both the United States and Canada classify the IRGC as a restricted entity, adding further complexity to Iran’s tournament logistics.
Conclusion
Iran’s final warm-up victory provides momentum heading into the World Cup, but logistical and political uncertainties continue to overshadow their preparations as the team awaits final clearance for travel to the United States.
FAQs
1. What was the result of Iran’s final warm-up match?
Iran defeated Mali 2-0.
2. Who scored for Iran?
Saeid Ezatolahi and Ramin Rezaeian.
3. Where will Iran’s World Cup base be?
Tijuana, Mexico.
4. Are there visa issues for Iran?
Yes, clearance for entry into the United States is still pending.
5. When does Iran play their first match?
June 15 against New Zealand.
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