Iran

Iran are riding a fresh wave of confidence after a 3 - 1 friendly win over Gambia in Antalya, extending their pre-World Cup momentum. The federation has now confirmed that the national team will base its 2026 World Cup preparation camp in Tijuana, Mexico, a move cleared by FIFA and motivated by visa and safety considerations, giving the squad a stable environment to fine-tune tactics. With the tournament fast approaching, Iran aim to solidify their core XI and sharpen cohesion in the Mexican camp to start the World Cup campaign on a strong footing.

Iran clash with New Zealand at home in Group G of the World Cup, where they sit as favorites after three wins in their last four home games. Iran have won three of their last four home games, conceding an average of 0.50 goals at home, and have won six of their last ten games, though four defeats are too many for a side with World Cup ambitions. They will line up in a compact, low-block, looking to slow the pace of the game and get men behind the ball. The side will try to hurt New Zealand on the counter attack, either from direct balls in behind, or from set plays and transitions. Amir Ghalenoei has instilled a system that works for his experienced squad, one that has won the last three games, including the recent 5-0 home win over Costa Rica and a 2-0 victory over Mali in the recent Friendly International Matches 2026. The side have an experienced striker line to get on the end of crosses and set pieces, and a clinical goal-getter in Mehdi Taremi, who has scored two of Iran's last four goals.