TEHRAN: Iran will play its final World Cup warm-up match behind closed doors in Türkiye on Thursday before traveling to Mexico on Saturday for the start of its FIFA World Cup campaign.
According to Beyond Time News, the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) confirmed that the friendly against Mali will take place without spectators or media access as the team completes preparations for the tournament.
Iran Keeps Final Friendly Private
The match against Mali will be held in Antalya, where Iran has conducted training camps during recent months.
In a statement, the FFIRI said the decision to restrict access aligns with the tactical plans of the national team’s coaching staff. Officials believe a closed-door match will allow players and coaches to finalize preparations without outside distractions.
The fixture marks Iran’s final test before the squad heads to its World Cup base.
Preparation Continues Despite Regional Tensions
Iran’s participation in the World Cup faced uncertainty earlier this year after military tensions escalated following air strikes on the country.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the national team continued its preparations and organized several international friendlies.
During training camps in Antalya, Iran played three warm-up matches. The team suffered a defeat against Nigeria but secured victories over Costa Rica and Gambia.
Coaches hope the match against Mali will help fine-tune tactics before the tournament begins.
Team Relocates Base to Mexico
The FFIRI successfully obtained approval from FIFA to change the team’s World Cup base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico.
From Tijuana, Iran will travel across the border for its opening group-stage matches in the United States.
Officials believe the new arrangement provides greater logistical flexibility and addresses concerns that emerged during recent geopolitical developments.
Group Stage Schedule
Iran has been drawn in Group C alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
The team will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles.
Iran will then face Belgium, also in Los Angeles, before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle.
The group presents a challenging path, with all four teams aiming to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Read more:Ankara: Iranian World Cup Squad Begins US Visa Process Ahead of 2026 Tournament
US Clarifies Entry Policy
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington has no objection to Iran’s national football team entering the country for the tournament.
However, he stated that US authorities would closely examine members of the delegation and would not permit individuals with alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to accompany the team.
The comments came during a congressional hearing focused on security and visa-related matters ahead of the World Cup.
Federation President Faces Travel Challenges
The issue of travel restrictions has already affected senior Iranian football officials.
FFIRI President Mehdi Taj was reportedly denied entry to Canada for the FIFA Congress in April because of concerns related to his alleged connections to the IRGC.
The development highlighted the broader political challenges surrounding Iran’s participation in international sporting events.
Focus Turns to World Cup Campaign
Despite political and logistical hurdles, Iran’s attention now shifts fully to the World Cup.
The national team remains one of Asia’s strongest football sides and secured qualification well before many of its rivals.
With preparations entering their final phase, coaches and supporters will hope the team can carry its momentum into the tournament and make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage.
FAQs
Why will Iran’s friendly match against Mali be played behind closed doors?
The Iranian Football Federation said the decision supports the coaching staff’s tactical preparations and allows the team to train without media or public access.
Where is Iran based for the World Cup?
Iran will use Tijuana, Mexico, as its tournament base after receiving approval from FIFA to relocate from Tucson, Arizona.
Which teams are in Iran’s World Cup group?
Iran is in Group C alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
When will Iran play its first World Cup match?
Iran will open its campaign against New Zealand on June 15.
Why did Iran change its tournament base?
The federation sought a new location amid logistical and political concerns and received FIFA’s approval to move its base to Mexico.
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