Mohammad Mohammad-Nabi, Vice President of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) and Team Melli manager, addressed the media regarding Iran’s latest preparations ahead of their crucial World Cup clash against Belgium.

“After all four teams in the group drew their opening matches, everything has effectively reset. The group is wide open,” Nabi remarked, reflecting on the competitive balance of Group G.

The national team, currently based in Tijuana, Mexico, has been undergoing recovery sessions following the physically demanding draw against New Zealand. The players are scheduled to train on the main pitch at the Tijuana camp later today (Friday) as they fine-tune their preparations for the Belgium encounter.

On the subject of visa complications that had threatened to disrupt Iran’s campaign, Nabi offered reassurance: “The players and coaching staff have no issues. Only Mehdi Torabi’s visa was initially issued as single-entry, but that problem was resolved yesterday. He is now cleared to re-enter the United States and rejoin the squad for the remainder of the group stage.”

However, Nabi acknowledged ongoing logistical frustrations regarding the team’s travel arrangements. “We had formally requested that the national team be permitted to stay at the tournament site two days prior to each match. We are currently in negotiations with the relevant authorities to resolve this matter. If they do not grant us permission, we will once again adopt the same approach as the first match—traveling to Los Angeles one day before the game and returning to Mexico immediately after.”

Regarding the squad’s fitness ahead of the pivotal Belgium match, the FFIRI Vice President provided a positive update: “The players are currently in a recovery phase, and no player is experiencing any issues at the moment. Mehdi Torabi has been reintegrated into group training following his injury, while Roozbeh Cheshmi is continuing his convalescence period and is being monitored closely by the medical staff.”