FIFA World Cup 2026: Islamic Republic of Iran players’ list, schedule and more

The Islamic Republic of Iran will head to the FIFA World Cup 2026 carrying more than just football ambitions. Team Melli arrives in North America with growing political tension surrounding their travel plans, yet FIFA officials continue to signal confidence that the squad will be present when the tournament begins in June. For a nation still chasing its first knockout-stage appearance at a World Cup, the weeks leading into the competition already feel unusually intense.Iran’s preparations have occurred against a complicated backdrop after concerns emerged over visa access and entry procedures in the United States and Canada. Still, FIFA secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom described recent talks with the Iranian federation as productive, offering some reassurance before the team departs for its training camp in Turkey. With matches against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand ahead, the focus is slowly returning to football and whether this experienced Iranian side can finally break past the group stage barrier.For now, all signs point to yes.Iran is scheduled to play their Group G fixtures in the United States despite lingering uncertainty linked to regional conflict and diplomatic restrictions. Questions intensified after the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran president, Mehdi Taj, and two officials reportedly faced issues with Canadian immigration authorities while travelling to the FIFA Congress in Vancouver last month.Even so, FIFA appears determined to keep the original tournament schedule intact. Grafstrom told Reuters, “We’ve had an excellent meeting and constructive meeting together with the Iran FA. We’re working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them in the FIFA World Cup.”Iran had reportedly requested that their matches be moved to Mexico, though FIFA president Gianni Infantino has insisted the games will remain at their assigned venues.Head coach Amir Ghalenoei confirmed the team will travel to Turkey for a training camp, friendly matches, and visa processing before moving to their American base in Arizona.Captain Mehdi Taremi remains the face of the squad and its biggest attacking threat. The former Porto striker, now playing for Olympiakos F.C., headlines Iran’s provisional 30-man roster that will later be reduced to 26 players.The squad blends veterans with younger attacking talent. Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand returns alongside experienced defenders Ehsan Hajsafi and Shoja Khalilzadeh. In midfield, Saman Ghoddos and Alireza Jahanbakhsh are expected to carry much of the creative load.Iran are also hoping to sharpen their form with friendlies in Antalya, including a confirmed match against Gambia on May 29.Everything still runs through Taremi. His 59 international goals in 103 appearances underline how heavily Iran depend on his finishing and movement inside the box. He is also one of the squad’s most experienced voices in high-pressure matches.Saman Ghoddos brings composure and vision in midfield after years in English football with Brentford F.C. Winger Mehdi Ghaedi adds pace and unpredictability, giving Iran another direct attacking option against stronger opponents.Iran open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles before facing Belgium six days later at the same venue. Their final group-stage match comes against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.With seven World Cup appearances now on record, Iran knows the familiar challenge ahead. The difference this time is expectation. This squad believes merely showing up is no longer enough.