Category: News

Iran to Face Nigeria and Costa Rica in March Friendlies

Amir Mehdi Alavi, spokesman for the Football Federation of Iran, has announced that Team Melli will play a friendly match against Nigeria on March 27th in Amman, Jordan. This will be Iran’s first friendly following the 2026 World Cup draw.

Although Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, they remain one of African football’s traditional powerhouses. The match represents a serious test for Amir Ghalenoei’s squad and fulfills the head coach’s wish for meaningful preparation following Spain’s withdrawal from a scheduled friendly in recent months.

Change of Plans

Ghalenoei had long insisted on holding the Nowruz camp in Europe, with initial plans for a training camp in Austria and preparatory matches against Scotland and Portugal. However, logistical challenges and the lack of suitable platforms for these matches led the federation to pursue alternative options. Instead, Iran will participate in a tournament in Jordan, facing Nigeria followed by Costa Rica.

The Opponents

Nigeria – Ranked 26th in FIFA rankings and third in Africa, the Super Eagles present a formidable challenge with their attacking style of play and physical approach. Despite missing the 2022 World Cup and failing to qualify for 2026, they remain one of Africa’s strongest teams.

Under the leadership of Eric Chelle, who has secured 14 wins in 21 matches, Nigeria boasts an impressive lineup featuring stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi. For Iran’s coaching staff, this match serves as valuable preparation for their World Cup group stage encounter with Egypt, simulating the style of play they can expect from their African opponents.

Costa Rica – The Central Americans, who have appeared in six World Cups, will provide a different test with their fast, technical football. The match against Costa Rica is scheduled for March 31st, 2026. Costa Rica has reportedly reached an agreement with former Spanish national team coach Robert Moreno, who will bring new tactical ideas to face Iran in the Jordan tournament.

Historical Context

Iran and Nigeria have met twice previously:

  • A 1-0 defeat in the 1998 Hong Kong tournament
  • A goalless draw in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil

The upcoming third encounter carries more technical and tactical significance than prestige, as Ghalenoei seeks to simulate conditions similar to the match against Egypt in World Cup Group G.

Strategic Preparation

While the inability to coordinate friendlies with major European teams has limited the coaching staff’s options, the selection of two opponents with contrasting styles demonstrates a shift from reactive planning to purposeful goal-setting. Nigeria will test Iran against physical, African-style football, while Costa Rica offers experience against fast, technical Central American play.

Though the European camp and match against Scotland were ultimately canceled, Ghalenoei has achieved his primary objective: measuring his team against opponents capable of revealing the true caliber of his players. Nigeria, in particular, represents exactly the kind of challenge that will prepare Iran for the World Cup.

Dragan Skocic reigns from Tractor

Dragan Skočić, the Croatian head coach of Tabriz’s “Tractor” club, has resigned.

The club’s press service released information on this matter.

The 57-year-old specialist left his position at his own request.

D. Skočić had been coaching the “Tractor” club since 2024. The team won the Iranian Pro League under his leadership in the 204/2025 season.

According to the information, Mohammad Rabiei has been temporarily appointed to lead the Tabriz club. A contract with him, valid until the end of the season, has been signed.

Currently, “Tractor” is in 2nd place in the Persian Gulf League with 35 points and has qualified for the Knock out round of the AFC Champions League Elite currently sitting in the third place.

According to inside reports, the dispute erupted between Skocic and veteran defender Shojae Khalilzadeh. Described by insiders as a perennially controversial figure rarely far from discord, Khalilzadeh’s conduct during and after the match is understood to have crossed a line for the Croatian tactician. It is believed that Skocic subsequently issued an ultimatum to the club’s owner: either he remains as coach, or Khalilzadeh stays in the squad, but the two could not co-exist.

While the player in question reportedly issued an apology for his behavior in an attempt to mend fences, the olive branch was not enough. Skocic ultimately decided against continuing in his role, holding firm to his principles despite the club’s efforts to resolve the internal rift.

A Legacy Forged Against the Odds

While his departure from Tractor is mired in conflict, Skocic’s broader legacy in Iranian football tells a story of remarkable resilience and achievement. He leaves behind a narrative defined by an extraordinary rise through the ranks.

Skocic’s journey in Iran began in the lower divisions, where he quietly honed his craft far from the glitz of the Persian Gulf Pro League. His systematic approach and tactical acumen eventually propelled him to the pinnacle of Iranian football: the helm of Team Melli (the Iranian national team).

It was in the national dugout that Skocic achieved the near-impossible. Taking charge under a cloud of administrative chaos and amidst the most difficult of circumstances, he successfully navigated Iran through a treacherous qualification campaign. He ultimately secured the team’s place in the FIFA World Cup 2022, a feat that cemented his name in the memories of Iranian fans and solidified his reputation as a coach who could deliver results when it mattered most.

His time at Tractor may have been brief and ended in discord, but Skocic’s impact on Iranian football—particularly his guiding hand in taking Team Melli to the world stage—will remain a significant chapter in the sport’s history.

Iran hold off valiant Indonesia to continue reign

Jakarta:  -www.the-afc.com
Iran emerged champions of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ with a 5-4 penalty shootout win after the thrilling final ended 5-5 after extra-time on Saturday.

In a hugely entertaining decider that had the fans at the Indonesia Arena on their feet throughout, Iran came from behind three times to lift the trophy for an amazing 14th time.

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Rio Pangestu kicked-off Indonesia’s bid for glory in the third minute when he was set up by Ardiansyah Nur, his shot forcing Bagher Mohammadi to hurriedly palm the ball away.

Iran, however, made their first look at goal count seconds later when Hossesin Tayebibidgoli sliced his shot from inside the semi-circle beyond a diving Ahmad Habiebie.

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They fluffed a chance to go further ahead when Ahmad Abbasi, with only Habiebie in his way, drove the ball past the left post, and then sent his shot into the side netting moments later.

Indonesia then raised the roof in the seventh minute when Reza Gunawan pounced up a rebound and poked his shot past a rooted Mohammadi.

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Israr Megantara added a second just a minute later when he rounded Mohammadi before calmly slotting the ball home.

He picked up his second goal in the ninth minute, coming down the left and smashing the ball beyond the keeper to double Indonesia’s advantage.

Final: Indonesia v Iran

The fired-up hosts threatened again in the 13th minute, with Firman Adriansyah charging down the middle following a fast break only to shoot straight at a waiting Mohammadi and then seeing his attempt from the left again denied by the keeper.

Iran thought they had pulled one back in the 16th minute through Abbasi but the goal was disallowed after it was determined that the ball had crossed the sideline, with Salar Aghapour’s free-kick, a result of Indonesia’s accumulated fouls, blocked by an alert Habibie moments later.

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Mahdi Karimi, however, did put his side back in the game in the 18th minute when Aghapour, off a free-kick on the edge of the circle, rolled the ball to him, with the midfielder side-footing his shot past the Indonesia wall and into the back of the net.

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Iran went on the offensive immediately after the break and levelled four minutes in off a kick-in from the right of the semi-circle via Abbasi, whose shot deflected off Samuel Eko and past Habiebie.

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Parity, however, lasted mere seconds as Indonesia again pulled ahead through Eko, who redeemed himself when he let loose from the edge of the circle past a helpless Mohammadi. 

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Having to chase the game again, Iran intensified their efforts with Agahpour hitting the post in the 33rd minute, Mohammadhossein Derakshani rattling the crossbar from the left two minutes later and Tayebibidgoli then shooting wide of the right post.

They were eventually rewarded as Karimi came to the rescue with the equaliser when, in a power play move, he powered the ball home past Habiebie in the 38th minute to take the game into extra time.

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The Central Asian side dominated the first half, but failed to find the target despite their best efforts. Replacement keeper Muhammad Nizar was Indonesia’s hero in the second, making crucial saves to keep his side in contention. 

The stadium then erupted when Israr, off a quick corner by Ardiansyah Nur, put the ball behind Mohammadi in the 49th minute.

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Iran, however, stunned the home fans into silence when they equalised seconds later after Abbasi chested in from close range following Aghapour’s powerful strike, sending the match to penalties.

Indonesia’s Muhammad Nizar saved Masoud Yousef’s first spot-kick with keeper Mahdi Rostami denying Dewa Rizki’s fourth for the hosts before Israr sent Indonesia’s sixth kick wide of the post. Hossein Sabzi then cooly converted to give Iran the amazing win.

Futsal Team Melli to defend the title against host Indonesia

AFC Futsal Asian CupS-final: IR Iran fight back to beat IraqThu, 05 February, 2026

Iran will defend their title after they twice came from behind to defeat Iraq 4-2 in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ semi-final on Thursday.

The Central Asian side – who will be playing in the final for the 16th time – will meet host Indonesia on Saturday in their bid for a 14th title.

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An even start saw the sides trading attempts, Iraq going close through Mustafa Ihsan and Harith Saad with Iran responding through Mohammadihossein Derakhshani’s header which bounced off the crossbar.

Ihsan then used his physical strength to turn Salar Aghapour in the sixth minute but saw his effort blocked by Bagher Mohammadi.

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Iraq gained the advantage in the 10th minute, opening the scoring through Salim Kadhim who robbed Saeid Ahmad Abbasi of possession on the halfway line before surging forward to find the bottom corner.

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The lead, however, only lasted a minute with Ahmad Abbasi redeeming himself with a perfect reverse pass to Derakhshani, who swept home from close range with Iraq custodian Ibrahim Ahmed rooted.

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Iraq restored their advantage in the 13th minute after Ghaith Riyadh’s free-kick found Kahdim, who had his initial effort blocked by Mohammadi but stuck out his leg while still on the ground to flick home the rebound.

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Iran, yet to trail at half-time in the tournament, ensured they kept the run going as they equalised through a stunning Behrooz Azimi strike from range three minutes from the break.

S-final: Iraq v IR Iran

There were chances at both ends after the interval with Kadhim slicing an effort wide before attempts from Azimi, Aghapour and Amirhossein Gholami failed to beat Ahmed.

Ahmed then did well to tip away Medhi Mehdikhani’s shot in the 26th minute but conceded from the ensuing corner as Hossein Tayebi arrived first to the ball to flick past the Iraq custodian.

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Iraq were denied the equaliser in the 30th minute when Derakhshani came to the rescue of Iran, blocking on the goal line to stop Kadhim’s strike after Mohammadi had been caught out of position.

Iran spurned an opportunity to widen the gap four minutes later after they were awarded a penalty for Tareq Zeyad’s foul on Mahdi Karimi but Tayebi’s shot was foiled by Ahmed.

Aghapour, however, struck in the 40th minute end Iraq’s hopes and seal Iran’s place in Saturday’s final.

AFC Logo

Group D top spot matters for Afghanistan and Iran

the-afc.com
It will be a battle for the purists when Afghanistan takes on Iran in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ Group D decider on Sunday.

Both have been flawless thus far, qualifying for the quarter-finals with a match to spare but something will have to give in Sunday’s highly anticipated encounter.

#ACFutsal2026 | Group D: Malaysia 0-7 Afghanistan

“It was unbelievable for us to achieve a big 7-0 victory,” said Mortezaei. “The fans made the atmosphere for us like we were playing at home.

“We are happy to reach the next stage and this is what we deserved. Playing against Iran is always difficult but we will try to maintain our high level.”

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“We drew with them in the last game (2-2 in the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games) but here, we want to finish first in the group and, hopefully, to be able to keep a clean sheet going as well.”

Iran’s place in the knockout stage was sealed after they overcame a stubborn Saudi Arabia 2-0 on Friday with second half strikes from Amirhossein Gholami and Bagher Mohammadi.

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The 13-time champions have an impeccable record of winning every group stage match since the format was introduced in the 2007 edition and head coach Vahid Shamsaee intends to add one more to the collection.

“We are happy to win and are already thinking about the next game,” said Shamsaee. “On the performance, there’s still a lot of things we can do better and we will try to achieve that in the next game.”

IR Iran v Afghanistan 
Venue: Jakarta International Velodrome (Jakarta)
Kick-off: Sunday, 19:00 (UTC+7)

Saudi Arabia and Malaysia are hopeful of a positive end to their time in Jakarta after suffering disappointments with defeats in their first two matches.

#ACFutsal2026 | Group D: Saudi Arabia 0-2 IR Iran

Saudi Arabia produced a spirited display against Iran but ultimately suffered a 2-0 defeat but head coach Andreu Plaza saw enough to suggest that his players can take plenty of heart from that performance into their final fixture.

“When we looked at what we wanted to do in this game, we knew we had to be strong and to be able to press because we only had one opportunity against a very strong and technical team like Iran,” said Plaza.

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“The tactics were good but we needed some luck with our finishing and that’s been our problem throughout, not only in this match but I’m happy with the performance.

“We want to go back with a win of course, we will try but Malaysia won’t be easy.”

Malaysia head coach Addie Azwan did not hide his disappointment after seeing his charges completely lose control against Afghanistan, where they conceded three goals in the space of four minutes.

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“The first eight minutes were quite good, we showed good discipline but once we conceded the first goal, the players lost focus and we couldn’t cope with their counter attacks,” said Addie.

“We had to push in the second half but it didn’t work. The last game (against Saudi Arabia) is still an important one for us and we will need to find the focus for that.”

Saudi Arabia v Malaysia
Venue: Indonesia Arena (Jakarta)
Kick-off: Sunday, 19:00 (UTC+7)

Internal Strife Threatens Iran’s World Cup Hopes

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, with just five months until the tournament kicks off, the Iranian national football team finds itself grappling not only with technical deficiencies but with a deeply concerning lack of unity—a stark contrast to the harmonious picture painted by head coach Amir Ghalenoei.

Despite repeated warnings from experts about persistent performance and management issues, Football Federation head Mehdi Taj has opted for stability, deciding to retain Ghalenoei. This move signals a clear departure from the federation’s previous approach, which saw the sudden dismissal of a successful Dragan Skocic, who led the team to qualification just before the final of the competition in Qatar in the 2022 World Cup. The message is clear: change is off the agenda, and Ghalenoei will remain at the helm regardless of the team’s precarious state.

The coach has consistently lauded the squad’s exceptional unity over the past three years. Recent events, however, reveal a troubling reality. Growing evidence suggests Ghalenoei may be papering over significant rifts within the Team Melli camp, with claims of solidarity appearing to exist only on paper.

A Public Feud Between Defensive Pillars

The simmering tensions erupted into public view following the Persepolis-Tractor match. Key defenders Shoja Khalilzadeh and Mohammad Hossein Kanaanizadegan, once close enough to call each other “brother”, have engaged in a bitter, public exchange of verbal abuses over minor on-field incidents. This discord is not isolated; similar altercations occurred during the match against Mes Rafsanjan. The rift has grown so severe that videos of the two players “unfollowing” each other on social media have circulated online, fanning flames among supporters and poisoning the team atmosphere.

Beyond the Pitch: Players in the Political Fray

The issue extends beyond a personal feud. These experienced players have entangled themselves in the federation’s political battles, notably the ongoing dispute between businessman Mohammad Reza Zenozi and Mehdi Taj. Instead of focusing on defensive coordination, they have each seemingly aligned with opposing factions, a glaring misstep that highlights a severe lack of managerial control and player discretion.

Their conduct is, unfortunately, characteristic. Both Khalilzadeh and Kanaanizadegan have histories of controversy, abusive, and unprofessional behavior, marked by petulance and unpredictability. At the national team level, Ghalenoei has proven to be a poor disciplinarian, a fact underscored after the Uzbekistan match when star forward Mehdi Taremi bluntly walked away from the coach who was attempting to speak with him. This culture of impunity is pervasive, with disciplinary committees at both club and federation levels often acting as mere formalities rather than enforcing regulations strictly.

A Dire Warning with the World Cup Looming

Drawn into a challenging Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, Iran faces an uphill battle. The internal disputes, managerial indecisiveness, and the divisive behavior of key players present a serious threat to the team’s World Cup campaign.

Retaining Ghalenoei without addressing these foundational issues—particularly the breakdown of locker room discipline and the dangerous blurring of lines between playing and political roles—risks catastrophic consequences. It threatens not only Iran’s performance on the world’s biggest stage but also the credibility and honor of Iranian football itself.

Firm start by Iran Futsal Team

Jakarta: Iran’s title defence started with a 4-1 win against Malaysia in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ Group D tie on Wednesday.

With the win, Iran joined Afghanistan, who beat Saudi Arabia 3-0 earlier in the day, on maximum points.

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Malaysia forced Bagher Mohammadi into making two early saves, both efforts from Awalluddin Nawi but it was Iran who would take the lead inside the opening minute.

A mix-up between goalkeeper Syaifuddin Syukri and Saad Sani saw what was supposed to be an easy gather turned into a simple tap-in for Mohammadhossein Derakhshani.

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Mohammadi came to the rescue of Iran again in the fifth minute, coming out of his goalmouth to stop a marauding Firdaus Ambiah who had broken through the last line of defence.

Similarly, Syaifuddin had to work hard to prevent the gap from widening, making a smart reflex swing to tip away Salar Aghapour’s rasping drive in the 10th minute and then sticking his leg out in the 18th to clear a volley from the same player before Hossein Tayebi cracked a shot against the post just before the break. 

Group D: IR Iran v Malaysia

After the interval, Malaysia continued to soak up Iran’s pressure with the occasional counter attacks looking dangerous but the reigning champions’ efficiency came to the fore in the 25th minute.

Aghapour – from the kick-in – teed up Behrooz Azimi for a precise low strike into the bottom corner which Syaifuddin could do nothing about.

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Iran were brimming with confidence now, adding a third a minute later when Tayebi capitalised on a Malaysian mistake to fire home from the edge of the semi-circle.

Moslem Oladghobad added another for Iran in the 28th minute with Malaysia netting a late consolation through Awalluddin. 

AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026: Group D review

Jakarta: Just three days remain for the kick-off of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ with the 16 contenders laying their final plans for the continental showpiece.

Concluding our look at the groups, the-AFC.com puts Group D under the microscope.

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Iran


Previous appearances: 17
Best finish: Champions (13 times)
2024 record: Champions
How they qualified: Group G winners
Fun fact: Iran has reached the title decider in 15 of their previous 17 appearances, only missing out in 2006 and 2012.

#ACFutsal2024 | Final : Thailand 1 - 4 Islamic Republic Of Iran

It will require a gargantuan effort to stop Iran from advancing from Group D, with the defending champions having shown their immense quality in qualifying.

Iran were the highest scorers in the Qualifiers, notching 26 goals without conceding once, sweeping aside Malaysia, United Arab Emirates and Bangladesh.

They were unstoppable at Thailand 2024, winning all but one of their six matches by at least two goals and will be eyeing more of the same with head coach Vahid Shamsaee having a plethora of talent at his disposal.

Afghanistan


Previous appearance: 1
Best finish: Quarter-final (2024)
How they qualified: Group H winners
Fun fact: Having impressed on their debut, Afghanistan will expect to advance to the knockout stage once again at Indonesia 2026. 

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Afghanistan booked their Finals ticket with a relatively straight-forward qualifying campaign, finishing as Group H winners.

Starting with a 10-1 win against Maldives, Afghanistan sealed a second appearance with a superb 8-0 victory against hosts Myanmar.

Despite having been drawn with Iran, Afghanistan will have no fear after having given the defending champions a tough fight when they met in the group stage of the 2024 edition.

Saudi Arabia


Previous appearances: 3
Best finish: Group stage
2024 record: Group stage
How they qualified: One of seven best runners-up
Fun fact: Saudi Arabia’s appearance at Indonesia 2026 will be their third consecutive Finals.

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Saudi Arabia’s initial target will be to reach the knockout stage.

Head coach Andreu Alvarez oversaw the Qualifiers where Saudi Arabia defeated Chinese Taipei and Pakistan before being edged by Iraq in their final match.

Fahad Rudyani was the star of their campaign, finding the net four times as Saudi Arabia displayed their attacking prowess with 19 goals.

Malaysia


Previous appearances: 12
Best finish: Group stage
2024 record: Did not qualify
How they qualified: One of seven best runners-up
Fun fact: Malaysia return to the continental showpiece after missing the last two editions.

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Malaysia have it all to do as they return to the competition for the first time since 2018 with Iran already a familiar sight, having lost 4-0 to the Central Asian side in the Qualifiers.

Addie Azwan Zainal has taken over as head coach duties Rakphol Sainetngam – who has returned to take charge of his native Thailand – and will have to implement his ideas in a short period of time.

Several friendly matches were played as part of their week-long final preparation as Addie looks to guide Malaysia to a respectable outing.

Korea Eyes Historic Hosting Bid Amidst Fierce Competition

Korea Eyes Historic Hosting Bid Amidst Fierce Competition

The race to host the AFC Asian Cup 2031 is entering a pivotal and highly competitive phase, with the Korean Football Association (KFA) emerging as one of the most determined contenders. Despite its strong resolve, Korea faces a formidable uphill battle in what is widely expected to be the most fiercely contested bidding process in the tournament’s history.

Chung Mong-gyu’s Leadership Pledge

KFA President Chung Mong-gyu placed hosting the 2031 tournament at the heart of his campaign platform ahead of his successful re-election for a fourth term. True to his pledge, the KFA formally submitted its letter of intent to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) the day after Chung secured his mandate at the end of February, underscoring the nation’s earnest commitment.

Unprecedented Seven-Nation Bidding Field

According to AFC records, seven nations have officially entered the bidding fray—an unprecedented number that signals the growing prestige and commercial appeal of the Asian Cup.

The Formidable Gulf Challenge: UAE’s Ambition

Among Korea’s most formidable rivals is the United Arab Emirates, which brings significant political and financial clout to the contest. The UAE bid enjoys the backing of Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a key figure in global football as the majority shareholder of Premier League giants Manchester City. Having already hosted the tournament in 1996 and 2019, the UAE is aiming for a third hosting honor, leveraging its vast resources, advanced infrastructure, and proven event management credentials—all key criteria in the AFC’s evaluation matrix.

Strong Contenders from Down Under and Beyond

Australia also presents a substantial challenge, having delivered a highly praised edition of the tournament in 2015. Its modern stadiums, established tourism framework, and multicultural appeal position it as a strong and reliable candidate. Meanwhile, nations such as Indonesia, India, and Kuwait may strengthen their proposals through robust governmental backing, despite current infrastructure gaps.

A Joint Central Asian Bid and Its Complications

In a notable move reflecting contemporary sporting trends, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are exploring a collaborative joint bid. This approach, however, raises procedural questions given Kazakhstan’s membership in UEFA rather than the AFC.

Korea’s Symbolic Quest and Practical Hurdles

For Korea, the 2031 bid carries profound symbolic weight, offering a chance to host the Asian Cup for the first time in 71 years. Yet, significant hurdles remain. Korean football officials privately acknowledge a perceived organizational gap compared to West Asia’s established football powers.

A more immediate concern is the recent criticism leveled at several K League stadiums over poor pitch quality—derisively labeled “paddy field grass” by local media. With the AFC set to conduct thorough on-site inspections, Korea must either demonstrate marked improvements or present compelling renovation plans ahead of the assessors’ visits.

AFC’s Strategic Move: A Potential Two-Tournament Award

Adding another layer of complexity, the AFC is reportedly considering awarding hosting rights for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments simultaneously, a strategic move that would effectively turn the current contest into a two-cycle decision.

Qatar Looms on the Horizon for 2035

Looking further ahead, though unconfirmed officially, rumors are circulating that Qatar may enter the bidding for the 2035 edition. Fresh from hosting a widely acclaimed 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar possesses unrivalled, world-class infrastructure, exceptional organizational proficiency, and a seamless transportation network. The nation also brings deep Asian Cup hosting experience, having previously staged the tournament in 1988, 2011, and most recently in 2023. Its potential entry could redefine the competitive landscape for the later edition, setting the stage for a new era of hosting excellence in Asian football.

A Determined Final Word from Korea

Amid the mounting competition, KFA President Chung Mong-gyu remained resolute. “The candidates are all strong,” he stated, “but we will work diligently to host the tournament through fair competition.”