Iran kicked off their World Cup preparations with a 3-1 comeback victory over Gambia in a friendly match in Turkey on Friday.
The Iranian squad remains in limbo over visas for entry into the United States, where they are scheduled to play all three of their group-stage matches at the World Cup.
Amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington over the conflict in the Middle East, Iran has established its tournament base in Mexico.
Iran fell behind 1-0 at half-time in Antalya but responded strongly after the break, scoring three goals in a 20-minute spell to seal the win. Among the scorers was Olympiacos forward Mehdi Taremi.
The team will continue its preparations with another friendly against Mali in Antalya next Thursday before opening its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 16.
Iran will then face Belgium, also in Los Angeles, before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle.
AFP
