Iran open talks with Nigeria for pre-World Cup friendly
2026-02-16 - 12:49
By Enitan Abdultawab Iran are in advanced discussions with Nigeria to stage an international friendly in March as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to reports from Tehran. The proposed fixture, which would see Team Melli face the Super Eagles, is, however, dependent on FIFA’s pending decision regarding Nigeria’s eligibility protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Tehran Times reported that the Iran Football Federation has opened negotiations with both Nigeria and Costa Rica as it finalises plans for two warm-up matches next month. An official announcement on the schedule is expected soon as Iran intensifies preparations for the global tournament. For Nigeria, participation in any March friendly hinges on FIFA’s ruling in a case stemming from their 4-3 penalty shoot-out defeat to DR Congo in the African play-off final in November 2025. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a formal complaint on December 15, alleging that six Congolese players who featured in the match were ineligible due to recent changes in international allegiance. FIFA is expected to communicate its verdict from Monday. NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi has maintained confidence in the country’s case, stating that the federation would not have proceeded without strong grounds. Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has also expressed hope that the decision could reopen Nigeria’s path to the World Cup. Should FIFA rule in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles would advance to a six-nation intercontinental play-off tournament scheduled for March in Mexico, effectively ruling out any friendly fixtures during that window. A contrary decision would leave the calendar open and clear the way for the proposed encounter with Iran. Iran, already drawn in Group G of the 2026 World Cup alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, had earlier explored high-profile preparatory matches against Spain and Portugal. Discussions with Senegal were also reportedly considered as an alternative opposition if talks with Nigeria do not materialise.