India, May 29 -- The final stages of preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are officially underway as Iran's national football team face Gambia in international friendly match on May 29, stepping onto the pitch at the Mardan Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey.

Iran currently sit at 21st in the FIFA world rankings, and this fixture represents an opportunity to integrate key players and perfect their setup after relocating their official tournament base camp to Tijuana, Mexico.

On the other hand of the pitch stands a determined Gambia squad, operating under the tactical guidance of head coach Johnny McKinstry. Ranked 116th globally, the Scorpions are using this high-profile friendly against top-tier opposition to kickstart their own leng...