PLDC - The Iranian Football Federation has announced that a high-profile friendly match between Iran and Portugal is now “almost finalized,” as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to the media, federation president Mehdi Taj confirmed that negotiations with Portugal have progressed significantly. Iran is expected to become Portugal’s second friendly opponent in June, with a memorandum of understanding likely to be signed within the next few days.
Taj added that Spain will be traveling to Qatar for their own training camp, where they may face Egypt and Qatar. There is also a possibility that Spain could play Iran afterward, although nothing has been finalized. Other potential opponents in talks include Scotland and Iceland.
Concerns Over U.S. Visa Issues for Iran Staff
Taj also addressed the visa complications that prevented several Iranian staff members from traveling to the United States for the World Cup draw. He said Iran must prepare backup players and staff, in case certain individuals are denied entry due to past military service or other issues.
He confirmed that Saeed Alhoei, one of Iran’s assistant coaches, was denied a U.S. visa. Taj emphasized that Iran formally protested to FIFA regarding the issue, stating that football’s global governing body “could have taken a stronger stance.”
Team Base Camp in the United States
The federation president revealed that Iran has inspected a potential team base camp located 56 kilometers from Los Angeles, with quick access to the city and just 12 minutes from the airport—an important factor given Iran’s third group-stage match in Seattle.
Taj expressed hope that “no political interference” would prevent Iran from securing the camp.
Ticket Access for Iranian Fans Abroad
Regarding World Cup ticketing, Taj noted that the average price is around $500 USD. While Iranian residents inside the country cannot obtain U.S. visas to attend the matches, Iranians living abroad will be able to purchase tickets through the federation’s official website.
