TEHRAN - Saeid Ezatolahi will be absent in two friendly matches against Nigeria and Costa Rica.

Team Melli are scheduled to face Nigeria on March 27 and meet Costa Rica four days later. 

The matches are part of preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The Shabab Al Ahli midfielder suffered a foot injury in match against Al Ain. 

Iran are drawn in Group G along with Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt.