AFCON 2025
Iran might not strike the average Nigerian football fan as a formidable opponent, whether on paper or on the pitch.
However, the Gulf nation is one of the strongest teams in Asia alongside South Korea, Australia, and Japan.
Iran boasts of a handful of very decent players, some of whom play in top European leagues and will be looking to put up a good showing against Nigeria ahead of the FIFA World Cup this summer.
Amir Ghalenoei announced a 35-man squad for the face-off against Nigeria, with a blend of youth and experience, just like Eric Chelle’s team.
The meeting between both sides is the second-ever after the 2014 FIFA World Cup group stage encounter, which ended in a barren draw.
Ahead of the friendly match against the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Friday in Antalya, Turkey, below are three Iranian players who can destroy the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
1. Mehdi Taremi
Taremi is arguably the biggest name out of Iranian football in recent years, given his contributions to the national team. Mehdi Taremi scored twice against Uzbekistan in a 2-2 draw – the brace that ensured Iran’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The 33-year-old striker scored 10 goals en route to Iran’s qualification for the Mundial. Mehdi Taremi is vastly experienced, having played for FC Porto and Inter Milan in Europe. Taremi currently plays for Olympiacos in the Greek Super League with 16 goals in 28 matches. Mehdi Taremi is a proper number with predatory instincts in the box and aerial prowess.
2. Mohammad Mohebi
The 27-year-old is a versatile player and one of the key attacking assets of the team. Mohammad Mohebi plays as a wide forward but can also operate as a midfielder, giving Amir Ghalenoei tactical options. Mohebi scored five goals during the World Cup qualification and was the third top scorer for the team behind Taremi and Sardar Azmoun, who scored eight goals. Mohammad Mohebi, just like Mehdi Taremi, played in the Iranian top division before moving to Europe, where he currently plays for Rostov in the Russian top flight.
3. Alireza Jahanbakhsh
The former Brighton, Hove, and Albion forward brings pace, creativity, and crossing ability to the wings. Drawing on his experience in the Dutch Eredivisie and the Premier League, Jahanbakhsh exploits wide spaces and whips dangerous balls into the box. He is going to be a handful for Nigerian full-backs every time he links up with Taremi and the other forwards.
4. Saman Ghoddos
Saman Ghoddos is the midfield maestro of the team. He delivers technical skill and versatility. He slots in as either a creator or an advanced midfielder, controls the tempo, and exploits gaps in the opposition’s formation. Super Eagles midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi must stay disciplined and hold tight positions to contain his influence.
5. Mehdi Ghayedi
The Al-Nasr winger unleashes a dynamic attacking threat with his agility, speed, and sharp eye for goal. He stretches defenses, makes incisive runs, and creates scoring chances for himself and his teammates. His standout performances in AFC competitions and domestic leagues make him a constant danger in transition and open play. Mehdi Ghayedi has nine goals in 27 appearances for the national team since he made his debut in 2020.
