(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Iran Beat Mali in World Cup Warm-Up as Team Prepares for Tournament Base in Mexico
Iran continued its preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 2-0 victory over Mali in a friendly match held in Türkiye on Thursday.
Midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi and right-back Ramin Rezaeian scored on either side of halftime to secure the win, giving Iran a positive result ahead of the tournament.
The team, known as Team Melli, has now recorded three wins in four friendly matches this year, with their only defeat coming earlier in the preparation phase in Antalya.
Iranian players based domestically have had limited competitive action since the suspension of their domestic league following regional tensions earlier in the year. The friendly matches have therefore played an important role in maintaining match fitness ahead of the global tournament.
According to officials, the squad has received travel clearance for Mexico and is expected to depart Türkiye for their base in Tijuana over the weekend.
Reports indicate that Mexico has agreed to host the team during the tournament, while arrangements are being made for travel and participation across different host countries.
However, administrative procedures, including visa approvals for matches scheduled in the United States, are still being finalized ahead of the tournament.
Iran is scheduled to play its group-stage matches in multiple North American cities as part of the expanded 48-team World Cup format, which runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Football officials say logistical planning remains ongoing for several teams as host nations coordinate travel, security, and administrative requirements across venues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Despite these challenges, Iran’s recent friendly results are seen as a positive step in their preparation for the global tournament.
