Iran to play Mali in 2026 World Cup preparation

TEHRAN - Iran have added a second friendly to their pre-World Cup itinerary, announcing a June 4 meeting with Mali during their training camp in Antalya, Turkey.

Pezeshkian presented with Iran No. 12 shirt

TEHRAN - Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian was presented with the No. 12 jersey of the Iran national football team during a visit to the team’s training camp ahead of the country’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

Mourinho: Iran deserve World Cup place

TEHRAN – Portuguese well-known coach José Mourinho insists Iran national football team deserve to play at the 2026 World Cup.

Iran determined to do something epic: Ghalenoei

TEHRAN – Iran football team head coach Amir Ghalenoei says that they are going to do something epic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Angola and North Macedonia cancel matches against Iran

TEHRAN - The football federations of North Macedonia and Angola have officially canceled their friendly matches against Iran.

Iran gear up for World Cup with friendly against North Macedonia

TEHRAN – As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, the Iranian national team are sharpening their tools for the global stage. Amirmehdi Alavi, the official spokesman for the Football Federation of Iran, confirmed on Saturday that Team Melli will face a formidable test in Turkey, squaring off against the resilient North Macedonia in a high-profile friendly.

By Farrokh Hesabi

Iran’s PGPL faces a risky plan to resume after 2026 World Cup

TEHRAN - Uncertainty around the future of the Persian Gulf Professional League (PGPL) has turned into a serious challenge for Iranian football. With the season left unfinished due to exceptional conditions of the country and the 2026 World Cup approaching, the idea of resuming the league after the tournament raises more questions than answers.

By Farrokh Hesabi

Iran handed a favorable Group at 2026 World Cup, expert says

TEHRAN - Following the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran found themselves placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, an outcome that former national team coach Homayoun Shahrokhi described as exceptionally favorable.