Iran aims for the next stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup: official

TEHRAN – The Secretary General of the Iran Football Federation, Hedayat Mombeini, stated that all efforts are aimed at reaching a point for a successful World Cup appearance and advancing to the later rounds.

Team Melli are drawn in Group G with Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

Mombeini noted progress on plans for the senior futsal and women’s national football teams, with trainings proceeding on schedule and expectations for good results by the end of the year.

“As the new year begins, World Cup preparations take center stage. I would like to express gratitude to the President and the Minister of Sports and Youth for their support, and we anticipate that the necessary steps for the national team’s preparation will continue,” he said.

“The World Cup committee meetings have been held recently and will continue. Arrangements for friendly matches are being pursued, with updates to follow.

“There is strong consensus within the football community and among the public in support of the senior national team. The aim is to reach the next stage of the 2026 World Cup and to advance through the rounds, with no effort spared. Training matches in March and June will be considered in line with the coaching staff’s plans,” Mombeini concluded.