TEHRAN-FIFA president Gianni Infantino says that he has encouraged the Iranian players to continue inspiring their fans on the global stage.

Infantino attended the friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica held in Antalya, Turkey Tuesday night.

Team Melli lost to Nigeria 2-1 and defeated Costa Rica 5-0 in their second friendly in their Turkey's camp. 

Iran prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Persians are drawn in Group G along with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.

"It was a pleasure to meet the players of the Iran national football team ahead of their friendly match against Costa Rica in Antalya. I had the opportunity to spend time with the players, as well as Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, the first vice president of the Football Federation of Iran, Omid Jamali, head of International Relations of the federation, and head coach, Amir Ghalenoei," Infantino posted on his Instagram account.

" I congratulated Team Melli once again on their qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and for making millions of people in Iran and around the world proud. Representation a nation comes with great responsibility, and I encouraged the players to continue inspiring their fans and making their people dream on the global stage," he wrote.

"Football brings unity and hope, even in the most challenging circumstances, and FIFA will continue to support the team to ensure the best possible conditions as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup. I look forward to seeing them deliver a positive message of humanity and togetherness to the world, " Infantino concluded.