News ID: 541

Date: 04 January 2026 - 15:57

FFIRI Newspaper | NO.287

Nemati: Advancing from World Cup Group Is Our Main Objective

Iran national team defender Ali Nemati said qualifying from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is the primary goal for both the players and the coaching staff.

Speaking to the Federation Daily, Nemati first commented on his recent humanitarian initiative that led to the release of eight financially distressed prisoners. He said helping others is a natural responsibility, adding that he prefers not to speak extensively about such actions as they are done from the heart. Nemati explained that with the support of the Nishapur Diyeh Foundation, the prisoners were able to return to their families, an outcome he described as deeply gratifying.

Turning to the 2026 World Cup draw, Nemati stressed that all teams qualified for the tournament possess strong technical quality, making no match easy. He noted that while some groups may appear less demanding on paper, the level of competition has become so balanced that no result can be predicted in advance. “We must enter the tournament fully focused from the very first match and give everything to achieve the results we need,” he said, expressing hope that the best possible outcome will be achieved for Iran.

Nemati added that the Iranian squad is already familiar with most of its potential opponents, particularly teams such as Egypt and Belgium, and reiterated that advancing from the group stage is the main objective shared by the team and the technical staff.

Commenting on the trust shown in him by head coach Amir Ghalenoei and his prospects of featuring at the World Cup, Nemati described it as a great honor. He said he has always tried to give his full commitment in training and matches and expressed gratitude to the head coach, adding that he hopes to continue serving the national team with dedication. “Every player anywhere in the world dreams of playing in such a major tournament, and I am no exception,” he said.

In conclusion, Nemati highlighted the importance of upcoming international friendly matches during future FIFA windows, noting that facing strong and well-organized teams from different continents will help Iran prepare properly for the World Cup and move closer to its major goal at the tournament.