Iran will stage its last World Cup warm-up match behind closed doors in Turkey on Thursday before traveling to its base in Mexico on Saturday, the national federation announced. Although the team qualified early, its participation faced uncertainty after recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on the country. The squad has already held three friendlies during camps in Antalya, losing to Nigeria while defeating Costa Rica and Gambia. On Thursday it will meet Mali in the Turkish resort town. The federation stated the match against Mali will occur without spectators or media to support the coach’s tactical plans. Officials secured FIFA approval to change the team base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, allowing easier travel for group matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles. The final group game versus Egypt is set for Seattle. U.S. officials indicated no objection to the players entering the country but will bar staff linked to the Revolutionary Guard. Both the U.S. and Canada list the Guard as a terrorist organization. Iran opens its campaign against New Zealand on June 15.
