Iran Negotiates Friendlies with Nigeria for World Cup Prep

Iran is currently in discussions with Nigeria to arrange two international friendly matches ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Iran Football Federation has proposed that one of these matches will be against Nigeria's national team, known as the Super Eagles, while the other is set to be against Costa Rica.

These matches are planned for March. However, the arrangements are contingent upon FIFA's forthcoming regulations concerning Nigeria's eligibility, particularly in light of Nigeria's recent protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo following their defeat in the African playoff final, where Nigeria lost 4-3 on penalties last November.

For the 2026 World Cup, Iran has been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.