Iran have decided to continue their faith in head coach Amir Ghalenoei after an impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, extending his contract to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has confirmed that Ghalenoei will continue in charge after reviewing his plans for the continental competition, according to a Reuters report.“Mr Ghalenoei will remain the head coach of the national team,” Tehran Times quoted Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj as saying. “We have already received his plans for the AFC Asian Cup.”Taj also confirmed that preparations for the next FIFA international window will begin soon, with other preparations being made for Iranian teams.The decision comes after Ghalenoei led Iran to a difficult but unforgettable World Cup in the United States, where Team Melli went out of the group despite not losing.
Three draws, no knockouts for Team Melli
Iran have been placed in Group G and have performed well against some of the best teams in the world, recording three consecutive draws. However, their tally of three points was not enough to secure one of the eight available places for the best third-placed teams.Iran started their campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand before holding Belgium to a goalless draw. Their last group game ended 1-1 against Egypt, leaving them third in the standings and ending their World Cup campaign.The campaign was very difficult to get off the field. Due to visa issues, Iran set up their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, rather than the United States. The team had to make several cross-border trips to games in Los Angeles and Seattle.The players were also keen to represent a country struggling with conflict at home, making their unbeaten streak all the more important.
Experienced Ghalenoei who faced the challenge of the Asia Cup
Ghalenoei, 62, is one of Iran’s most experienced coaches and is currently serving the national team for the second time. He first led Team Melli between 2006 and 2007, taking Iran to the quarterfinals of the 2007 AFC Asian Cup.After returning as head coach in 2023, he led Iran to the semi-finals of the 2023 Asia Cup, further cementing his record.Iran, three Asian champions whose last title came in 1978, will now turn their attention to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. They have been drawn in Group C along with Syria, Kyrgyzstan and China.The tournament will begin on January 7, with the final scheduled to take place in Riyadh on February 5.
