Iran secured a 2-0 victory over Mali in their final competitive warm-up match in Turkey, providing a morale boost as the squad prepares to head to Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. Reuters reported that goals from midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi and right-back Ramin Rezaeian cemented the win in Antalya, giving Team Melli a record of three wins and one loss across four friendly matches played this year in the Turkish resort city.
Despite the positive result on the pitch, the team`s participation remains clouded by significant logistical and political uncertainty. This series of friendlies served as the only competitive action for the Iran-based players following the suspension of the domestic league in late February, which was triggered by regional conflict and airstrikes. While officials confirmed this week that the squad has secured visas for Mexico and will depart Turkey on Saturday for their base in the border city of Tijuana, the situation regarding their entry into the United States remains precarious.
The squad has yet to receive the visas required to enter the US for their group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) President, Mehdi Taj, indicated this week that securing these documents is the primary concern for the federation as the tournament opener approaches on June 15. The geopolitical friction stems from the status of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which both the US and Canada designate as a terrorist entity.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Tuesday that while there is no objection to the Iran squad itself entering the country, Washington will not grant entry to any officials or staff members with ties to the IRGC. This policy directly impacts the federation`s ability to accompany the team, as Taj was previously refused entry into Canada for the FIFA Congress in April due to his alleged links to the military force. With time running out before the tournament begins, the uncertainty surrounding these travel restrictions casts a shadow over Iran`s World Cup campaign.
