Between War and World Cup Prep: Iran’s Two Friendlies in Turkey
25 March 2026
World Cup draw lands Iran in Group Seven.
The Iran national team trained today in Belek, near the Turkish coast, as it prepares for two friendlies ahead of the 2026 World Cup, amid heightened regional tensions.
The squad held a training session in Belek, close to Antalya on the Mediterranean, with strict media access restrictions as organizers aim to avoid distractions.
Iran will play two friendlies in Antalya against Nigeria and Costa Rica on Friday and the following Tuesday.
The matches were originally planned for Amman, Jordan, but were moved to Turkey after the war intensified.
Sardar Azmoun was recently left out of the squad after posting a photo with Dubai ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Instagram.
The Iran camp has kept a low profile, with players focusing on their training schedule ahead of the World Cup.
Team officials said players are fully focused on the competition calendar and that interviews were not allowed during the camp.
Belek will host two friendlies against Nigeria and Costa Rica on Friday and Tuesday, as planned.
Earlier the games were to be held in Amman, Jordan; they were moved to Turkey following the war.
Additionally, it was noted that striker Sardar Azmoun remains out of the team following the social media incident with the Dubai ruler.
Read also
Iran’s star player dropped for alleged treason
In war’s shadow, Iranian authorities seize assets of two national teammates
Coach: Morocco among World Cup favorites; we will face the unknown
Punchline 1: If Iran’s defense is a fortress, the attackers brought a siege engine—good thing the goalposts don’t run away.
Punchline 2: In war and in football, the only thing guaranteed is the whistle—everything else is a surprise attack on the scoreline.
