Iran Open Negotiations with Nigeria for Pre-World Cup Friendly

Iran are reportedly in advanced discussions with Nigeria to stage an international friendly in March as part of their 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations. The proposed match would see Team Melli face the Super Eagles, though the fixture is contingent on FIFA’s pending decision regarding Nigeria’s eligibility protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Iran Finalising Warm-Up Matches

According to the Tehran Times, the Iran Football Federation is negotiating with both Nigeria and Costa Rica to finalise plans for two pre-World Cup friendlies next month. An official announcement regarding the schedule is expected soon as Iran intensifies its preparations ahead of the global tournament.

Iran, drawn in Group G of the 2026 World Cup alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, had previously explored matches against Spain and Portugal to boost their competitive readiness. Talks with Senegal were also reportedly considered as an alternative should discussions with Nigeria not materialise.

Nigeria’s Participation Hinges on FIFA Ruling

Nigeria’s involvement in any March friendly is dependent on FIFA’s ruling regarding their protest following the 4–3 penalty shootout 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, claiming that six Congolese players were ineligible due to recent changes in international allegiance. FIFA’s decision, expected imminently, will determine Nigeria’s World Cup qualification status.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi expressed confidence in the federation’s case, and Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has also voiced hope that FIFA’s ruling could reopen Nigeria’s path to the tournament.

If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles will advance to a six-nation intercontinental play-off in March in Mexico, effectively ruling out a friendly with Iran. Conversely, a ruling against Nigeria would leave the March window open for the proposed fixture.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Iran negotiating to play in March?

Iran is in advanced talks with Nigeria for a friendly, and also considering Costa Rica as an alternative.

Why is Nigeria’s participation uncertain?

Nigeria’s March fixture depends on FIFA’s ruling on their eligibility protest following the African play-off defeat to DR Congo.

Who else could Iran face in World Cup warm-ups?

Iran had previously explored friendlies against Spain, Portugal, and Senegal.