Amid Middle East Tensions, Iran Trains in Turkey Ahead of World Cup Friendlies

Iran’s men’s football team has been training in Belek, Turkey, as they gear up for two important friendlies before the FIFA World Cup. Media access was tightly controlled to keep the squad focused away from outside distractions. Officials describe the matches against Nigeria and Costa Rica as critical preparation. The Iranian federation is in talks with FIFA about moving World Cup fixtures from the United States to Mexico over safety concerns. Striker Mehdi Taremi took part in the sessions after recent attention for swapping jerseys with an Israeli opponent. Forward Sardar Azmoun was left out of the squad following a meeting with a Gulf ruler, amid reports of a perceived act of disloyalty.

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