Iran to Play Closed-Door Friendly Before World Cup; Base Camp Shifted to Mexico

Staff Report: PNN

Iran national football team will play its final pre-World Cup friendly match behind closed doors, without spectators or media presence. The match will be held against Mali at the Antalya resort in Turkey.

According to the Iranian Football Federation, the decision was made to keep tactical strategies confidential. No audience or media personnel will be allowed inside the stadium.

The match is considered a key part of Iran’s World Cup preparation. The team will depart for its main base camp the following day.

Iran is scheduled to travel to Mexico on Saturday to begin final preparations for the World Cup. Previously, their base camp was planned in Arizona, USA, but it was later relocated to Tijuana, Mexico after discussions with FIFA.

The federation also stated that the team completed two separate training camps in Antalya due to current conditions. Iran has played three friendly matches so far, losing to Nigeria but securing wins against Costa Rica and Gambia.

Under the new plan, Iran will train in Tijuana and travel across the border to Los Angeles for two group-stage matches. Their final group match will be held in Seattle against Egypt.

This preparation strategy has drawn attention in the football world due to its secrecy and planning.