Iran will take on Gambia in an international friendly at the Mardan Stadium in Antalya on Friday. The Asian side are using the match as preparation for the upcoming World Cup, while Gambia will look to test themselves against stronger opposition.

Iran continue World Cup preparations

Iran qualified for the World Cup in impressive fashion, finishing top of their qualifying group ahead of Uzbekistan.

Their recent friendlies have been entertaining and high-scoring. Iran suffered defeats against Russia, Uzbekistan and Nigeria, but responded with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Costa Rica. They also beat Tanzania and edged Cape Verde in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Gambia still searching for consistency

Gambia failed to qualify for the World Cup after finishing well behind the leaders in their qualification group.

The team did show attacking quality in a 7-0 win over Seychelles, but defensive weaknesses were exposed again during a 3-1 defeat against Senegal in their latest friendly.

Iran’s motivation could be decisive

These matches are extremely important for Iran ahead of the World Cup, with players still fighting for places in the final squad.

Gambia may cause problems through physicality and quick transitions, but Iran appear far stronger in midfield control, positional play and overall squad quality.

Key stats

Iran

• Finished top of their World Cup qualifying group
• Beat Costa Rica 5-0 in a recent friendly
• Scored 12 goals in their last 6 matches

Gambia

• Defeated Seychelles 7-0
• Lost 3-1 against Senegal
• Continue to struggle defensively against stronger teams

Prediction

The gap in quality between the two sides is difficult to ignore. Iran hold the advantage in experience, tactical organisation and squad depth.

Gambia could threaten occasionally, but over 90 minutes Iran should have enough quality to control the game and secure victory.

Match prediction

Iran to win