Iran likely to feature in four-team tournament in Basra
Iran is expected to take part in a four-nation international tournament in the Iraqi city of Basra during the November FIFA international window, according to Iraqi media reports.
Hosts Iraq and Uzbekistan have reportedly confirmed their participation, while the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) has given its initial approval to join the tournament.
Should Iran’s participation be finalized, the event will serve as part of Team Melli’s preparations for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which kicks off on January 7 in Saudi Arabia.
A semifinalist at the previous two editions, Iran will begin its bid for a fourth Asian Cup title – and its first since 1976 – against China in Group C, which also features Kyrgyzstan and Syria, at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena on January 9.
The Basra tournament could also set up another meeting between Iran and Uzbekistan, a fixture that has developed into one of Asian football’s most compelling rivalries in recent years.
The future of Iran’s bench, however, remains unclear. Head coach Amir Qalenoei’s contract, signed in March 2023, expired last week, and the FFIRI has yet to officially confirm an extension ahead of the continental showpiece.
Qalenoei, who guided Iran to the quarterfinals of the 2007 Asian Cup during his first spell in charge and to the semifinals of the 2023 edition, also oversaw Team Melli’s campaign at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup in North America. Iran drew with New Zealand (2-2), Belgium (0-0), and Egypt (1-1) to finish third in its group and miss out on a place in the knockout stage.