(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Iran to Play Closed-Door World Cup Warm-Up Match Before Heading to Mexico
Iran’s national football team will play its final World Cup warm-up match behind closed doors in Türkiye on Thursday before traveling to Mexico on Saturday for the tournament, according to the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI).
The match against Mali will take place without spectators or media attendance as part of the team’s preparation strategy ahead of the World Cup.
Iran, which secured early qualification for the tournament, has continued its preparations through training camps and friendly matches in Türkiye. The team has played several warm-up games in recent weeks as part of its build-up to the competition.
Following the training camp, the squad is scheduled to relocate to its tournament base in Mexico. From there, the team will travel to the United States for group-stage matches.
Iran has been drawn in a group alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. Its opening match is scheduled against New Zealand on June 15.
The federation stated that the decision to hold the final warm-up match behind closed doors was made for tactical preparation purposes.
The team’s logistical arrangements have also been adjusted, with reports confirming a change in base location to facilitate travel between match venues in North America.
Iran’s participation in the tournament comes amid heightened regional tensions earlier in the year, though officials have confirmed that the team is proceeding with its preparations.
Further updates regarding squad arrangements and travel plans are expected ahead of the tournament kickoff.
